Liverpool come from behind to beat Atlético Madrid in UCL opener

Liverpool began their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 win over Atlético Madrid at Anfield on Wednesday night.

Andoni Iraola’s team fell behind in the first half but produced an impressive comeback. Dominik Szoboszlai equalised before Alexis Mac Allister scored a superb left-footed strike to complete the turnaround.

Atlético started well and took the lead in the 17th minute. Julián Álvarez played Marcos Llorente through on goal, and the midfielder calmly beat Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson.

Liverpool responded with pressure. Florian Wirtz forced a save from Jan Oblak, while Álvarez tested Alisson from distance. The hosts eventually found an equaliser just before half-time.

Ronald Araújo produced a clever flick to send Szoboszlai into the penalty area. The Hungary international kept his composure and placed the ball past Oblak to make it 1-1.

Liverpool completed the comeback only five minutes after the restart. Wirtz sent Bradley Barcola clear, but the forward missed the target. Moments later, Mac Allister collected the ball and fired a powerful shot into the net from outside the area.

Barcola, making his Anfield debut, impressed with his pace and work rate. However, he was substituted in the 58th minute after appearing to suffer from cramp. Iraola later confirmed that the change was precautionary.

Atlético pushed for an equaliser but struggled to create clear chances. David Hancko headed over, while Liverpool defended strongly during the final stages.

Liverpool thought they had scored a third goal in the 88th minute when Jeremie Frimpong followed up after Oblak saved from a low shot. However, the goal was ruled out for offside.

The visitors continued to attack, but Liverpool remained organised and saw out the match comfortably.

The victory gives Iraola a winning start in the Champions League and provides Liverpool with an important early result in Europe.