Virgil van Dijk powered home a stoppage-time header to give Liverpool a dramatic 3-2 win over Atletico Madrid in their UEFA Champions League opener at Anfield on Wednesday night, in a match that ended with Atletico coach Diego Simeone shown a red card.
Liverpool raced into a dream start, scoring twice inside the opening six minutes. Mohamed Salah’s free-kick deflected off Andy Robertson and into the net before the Egyptian star doubled the lead with a superb solo effort.
However, Atletico struck back through Marcos Llorente, who scored either side of half-time to drag the visitors level at 2-2. His double evoked memories of Atletico’s famous 3-2 comeback at Anfield in 2020.
Liverpool looked set to rue missed chances, with Salah hitting the post and new signing Alexander Isak struggling on his debut after a record £125 million move from Newcastle. But in the 92nd minute, Van Dijk rose unmarked to head in Dominik Szoboszlai’s corner, sparking wild celebrations.
The late winner provoked fury from Simeone, who clashed with Liverpool supporters and appeared to demand the removal of a fan before being dismissed by referee Maurizio Mariani.
The victory maintained Liverpool’s 100% record this season, with all five of their league and European wins coming from goals scored after the 80th minute.
Salah, who had seemed overshadowed by Liverpool’s new attacking trio of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, and Isak in recent weeks, returned to form with a decisive display.
Atletico, meanwhile, continue their poor start to the season with just one La Liga win in four matches. Their defensive frailties proved costly again, with Van Dijk left completely unmarked for the decisive goal.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot will be pleased with the result but aware of lingering defensive issues, as his team has conceded at least twice in four of their last six matches.
With this dramatic win, Liverpool underline their intent in Europe, while Atletico face more questions about their form under Simeone.
