Kylian Mbappé Falters as Liverpool Edge Real Madrid 1–0 in the Champions League

Kylian Mbappé, usually unplayable this season, endured a night to forget at Anfield as Liverpool defeated Real Madrid 1–0 in the Champions League on Tuesday. It was the second consecutive year that the French forward struggled on Merseyside, looking a shadow of the player who has been dismantling defences across Europe in recent months.

“We were lacking that threat in the final third,” said Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, choosing not to single out Mbappé but indirectly addressing his side’s attacking shortcomings.

Mbappé Fails to Deliver at Anfield

Mbappé arrived at Anfield boasting 21 goals in 17 appearances this season and in sparkling form that had placed him among the frontrunners for the Ballon d’Or. However, he registered just three attempts during the match — none on target — as Liverpool’s defence stood firm.

His strike partner Vinícius Júnior also found himself largely isolated, struggling to make an impact as the hosts controlled the rhythm of the game.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot revealed that his pre-match preparations had focused on neutralising Madrid’s attacking duo.

“I told the players before the game that Madrid have scored 26 goals in La Liga and that Mbappé and Vinícius have contributed 24 of them,” Slot said. “You can never completely control those two, but you can do a few things very well.”

A Frustrating Night for the Frenchman

Mbappé’s best chance came in the second half, shortly after Alexis Mac Allister’s 61st-minute header had put Liverpool in front. Collecting the ball inside the area, the Frenchman shaped to curl a trademark effort into the top corner — only to see it drift well wide.

It was a familiar story for Mbappé, who also endured a torrid night at Anfield last season when Madrid were beaten 2–0 in the group stage. On that occasion, he missed a penalty that would have drawn the Spanish giants level.

This time, the Premier League champions restricted Madrid to few meaningful opportunities, ensuring the visitors failed to score for the first time all season and suffered just their second defeat in all competitions.

Anfield Atmosphere Proves Overwhelming

Anfield once again lived up to its reputation as one of Europe’s most intimidating venues. The atmosphere intensified late on when former Liverpool favourite Trent Alexander-Arnold was introduced to loud jeers from the home supporters.

“I was impressed by the atmosphere throughout the whole 90 minutes,” Slot admitted afterwards.

Alonso, meanwhile, conceded his side lacked the cutting edge required to trouble Liverpool.

“I think we competed well,” the Madrid boss reflected. “What was lacking today was perhaps the ability to hurt them in the final third and be a real threat.”