Kylian Mbappe costs Real Madrid crucial Champions League match? Check details

Kylian Mbappe’s penalty miss proved costly as Liverpool secured a commanding 2-0 victory over Real Madrid on Wednesday in the Champions League, handing the defending champions their third loss in five matches. The Reds delivered a stellar performance in the second half, with Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo finding the net to maintain Liverpool’s flawless campaign and reclaim the top spot in their group. Liverpool had opportunities to extend their lead, but Mohamed Salah also missed from the penalty spot, firing wide. However, the miss had little impact on the outcome, as Liverpool showcased dominance under the guidance of new manager Arne Slot. The victory marked their 17th win in 19 matches across all competitions since Slot took charge, a remarkable start to his tenure.

This result also carried symbolic significance for Liverpool, as Slot accomplished something that eluded former boss Jurgen Klopp—defeating the Spanish giants, who have been Liverpool's nemesis in recent European campaigns. The Reds looked confident and composed, with their defensive solidity and incisive attacking play proving too much for Real Madrid. The victory cements Liverpool’s position as a force to be reckoned with this season while raising questions about Real Madrid’s form as they struggle to defend their European crown. Mbappe’s penalty save will be a moment to reflect on, but for now, Liverpool celebrates a crucial win on the continental stage.

Liverpool entered their clash against Real Madrid with a point to prove, aiming to break a frustrating streak against the Spanish giants. Madrid had remained unbeaten in their previous eight encounters with the Reds, including two high-stakes Champions League finals. Those defeats—one in 2018 and another in 2022—were bitter memories for Jurgen Klopp’s side, highlighting Madrid's dominance over Liverpool on Europe’s biggest stage.

The match presented an opportunity for Liverpool to finally turn the tables and rewrite their narrative against their long-standing rivals. After multiple disappointments, including those crushing final losses, Liverpool’s determination to settle the score was palpable. This game wasn’t just about securing three points; it was about restoring pride and overcoming a hurdle that had loomed large in their recent history. Liverpool’s resilience and hunger for redemption set the stage for a dramatic and long-awaited triumph over the reigning champions.

"You know how special it is to play against a club that won this Champions League so many times, are the reigning champions and were a pain in the ass for Liverpool many times as well," said Slot.

Carlo Ancelotti's Real Madrid dropped to 24th in the table following their defeat, putting their knockout stage hopes on the line. Only the top 24 teams advance, with the top eight earning direct entry to the last 16. In contrast, Liverpool, brimming with confidence from their eight-point lead at the Premier League summit, showcased their dominance in front of an electrified Anfield crowd. Madrid, plagued by injuries, traveled without key players like Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, Aurelien Tchouameni, and David Alaba.

Young defender Raul Asencio stepped up, making a crucial goal-line clearance in the fourth minute after Darwin Nunez’s effort, set up by Mohamed Salah, was initially denied by Thibaut Courtois. The Madrid keeper, who starred in their Champions League final win two years ago, once again frustrated Liverpool with a brilliant save to deny Nunez from close range. Despite sustained pressure, Liverpool couldn’t break through before halftime.