New Delhi: Liverpool continued their impressive UEFA Champions League run with a 1-0 victory over Girona in game week six, extending their perfect record in the competition. Mohammed Salah was once again the man of the show as he converted a 63rd-minute penalty after Donny van de Beek fouled Luis Diaz, ensuring a hard-fought win for the Reds. The result leaves the Reds virtually assured of a spot in the last 16 with two matches left in the league phase.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid also secured a much-needed victory as they defeated Atalanta 3-2 on the same night. Kylian Mbappe, who scored his 50th Champions League goal, joined Salah in achieving a remarkable individual milestone. Both players showcased their brilliance on a night filled with dramatic moments and pivotal performances.
Salah’s milestone
Mohammed Salah’s decisive penalty not only secured Liverpool’s sixth straight win in the Champions League but also etched his name in the history books. The Egyptian King became just the 11th player to score 50 goals in the competition, a testament to his incredible consistency at the highest level. Under new coach Arne Slot, Liverpool’s form has been extraordinary but the win against Girona wasn’t without challenges. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker had to deliver crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet, reflecting Slot’s post-match criticism of the team’s performance despite the victory.
🤴🏼🇪🇬 Mo Salah has scored 50 Champions League goals. ✨ pic.twitter.com/X0dvdBCcw6
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 10, 2024
At 32, Salah continues to be pivotal for the Reds, tallying 16 goals in 22 appearances across all competitions this season. As his contract nears its end his influence remains undiminished further cementing his legacy at the club.
Mbappe joins the club
Later in the night, Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe also reached the 50-goal mark in the Champions League, joining the Liverpool veteran in the exclusive club. At just 25 Mbappe became the second-youngest player after Lionel Messi to achieve this feat. However, his night was cut short as he was substituted before halftime due to an apparent physical issue.
50 Champions League goals for Kylian Mbappé 👏#UCL pic.twitter.com/3Gk6tnfxv1
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) December 10, 2024
Despite the setback, Real Madrid regained control through two quick goals from Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham with three minutes of entering in the second half, securing a 3-2 victory. With Madrid three points adrift of the top eight positions in their league phase, Mbappe’s form will be crucial as they aim to secure qualification in their remaining matches.
What next?
Liverpool’s remaining two games are against Lille at home and PSV Eindhoven away in January as they aim to finish the group phase with an unblemished record. Meanwhile, Real Madrid needs to navigate crucial games against Salzburg and Brest to secure their place in the knockout stages.
Liverpool edge Girona 1-0 to extend their winning streak while Real Madrid triumphed 3-2 over Atalanta to close the year with a victory. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
