Caoimhín Kelleher had another unforgettable night at Anfield, saving Kylian Mbappé’s penalty in Liverpool’s impressive 2-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League.
The win, secured by goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo, ended Liverpool’s 15-year wait for a victory over the Spanish giants and brought them closer to the last 16 with their fifth consecutive group-stage win.
Kylian Mbappe, who started on the left side of the Los Blancos attack in place of injured Vinicius Jr., had the chance to put his team back in the game nine minutes after McAllister opened the scoring through the spot kick but had it saved by Liverpool’s second-choice goalkeeper, Caoimhín Kelleher.
Speaking after the game, the goalkeeper responded “I was confident and thankfully went the right way again,” Kelleher told TNT Sports. “It is a massive result for us. We wanted to come out tonight and put on a performance—well done to the lads for doing that.”
Looking ahead to their Premier League clash with Manchester City, Kelleher added: “Confidence is high in the whole squad. Man City is always a tough test, but this win gives us great momentum.”
Manager Arne Slot Reflects on His Biggest Win
Liverpool manager Arne Slot hailed the triumph as his most significant victory since taking over from Jürgen Klopp.
“You know how special it is to play against a team that has won the Champions League so many times,” Slot said. “They’ve been a thorn in Liverpool’s side for years. To win like this is a big moment for us.”
Slot praised his team’s progress and adaptability:
“The playing style isn’t too different from Jürgen’s, so it has been easier to implement. Seeing both starters and substitutes perform as expected is very satisfying.
“Real Madrid’s threats mostly came from our own mistakes. We still need to play with more intensity and control, but this win shows how far we’ve come.”
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Momentum for City Showdown
With this landmark victory, Liverpool heads into the weekend full of confidence. Facing Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, the Reds will look to continue their strong form and make a statement in the Premier League title race.
