🔗 Share this article

Conor Bradley was driven amidst the overwhelming support from Liverpool's faithful, whereas Trent Alexander-Arnold – the hometown hero who left Liverpool behind – was given a brutal and unwelcome reception regarding his changed status.

Bradley was earmarked as Alexander-Arnold's heir apparent ever since he announced his decision to exit Anfield for Real Madrid, as luck would have it both elite clubs competing in the tournament, all was ready.

And what a contrast it was as the 22-year-old defender from Northern Ireland became the emblem in a Liverpool performance that harked back to their Premier League title-winning best as the Spanish side was defeated.

Alexander-Arnold, who started from the sidelines, throughout faced an unmistakable indication of the crowd that used to celebrate his former iconic role now regard him.

The occasion proved marked by continuous negativity aimed in Alexander-Arnold's direction, including his Anfield mural being vandalised bearing negative messages prior to kickoff plus the crowd's rage provoked by what many supporters consider as a breach of trust.

Bradley actually fuelled the fury and scorn aimed in Alexander-Arnold's direction through an outstanding performance that reduced the formidable opposing winger to a spectator, limited to dramatic actions – unconvincing antics – against the youngster's physical dominance.

Every Bradley tackle drew loud applause, all his balls welcomed with crowd support, vocals celebrating him enthusiastically, not only for his performance and as a clear signal for Alexander-Arnold that there was a new kid at the club, establishing him as part of history.

Naturally, the defender, garnered praise of head coach Arne Slot.

Conor Bradley was outstanding, commented Slot. Facing Vinicius in multiple direct confrontations proves challenging for most, yet he excelled.

Had the graffiti displayed on the defender's tribute hadn't alerted him regarding the coming hostility, he received clear confirmation during his warm-up to warm-up as one of Real Madrid's substitutes ahead of the game, boos echoing through the stadium, the critical response repeated when his name was read out.

Just as it seemed he would miss the complete hostility, Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso introduced him as a late replacement as they tried to level Liverpool's lead, justly achieved through by Alex Mac Allister's header just after the hour.

Reaction to Trent's entrance proved brutal, plus sarcastic shouts after an errant pass that drifted aimlessly beyond the boundary.

The defender's brief, negative showing occurred alongside supporters recalling players who remained faithful amid transfer interest to depart Liverpool, particularly ex-skipper Gerrard, present in the crowd.

This was Liverpool's night, Bradley's night – a classic Anfield atmosphere with their ex-player's return became extra fuel to increase the intensity.

The Reds, previously struggling following poor results before Aston Villa were beaten on Saturday, produced a showing which ranked among their finest this season, a timely reminder of the standard that helped them stroll to the title.

Slot appreciated the response to victory, commenting: Winning matches proves more enjoyable than if you lose as a manager. Losses demand extensive focus because you so badly want to change it, but you also try to be the same manager and character during successful periods.

Solely the performance from the exceptional goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois that threatened to stop Liverpool getting what they merited, through an outstanding personal display evoking past matches when he frustrated them during their defeat under Klopp the continental decider in Paris.

The Belgian made a string superb interventions, preventing goals from the midfielder plus an incredible reaction save against Van Dijk's aerial effort, before even he was powerless from Mac Allister's headed goal after the midfielder's delivery.

The slim winning difference barely represents their complete control throughout, these crucial three points moving them to sixth position in the Champions League table, a placement that would guarantee knockout stage advancement eliminating the necessity for additional matches if sustained.

Szoboszlai with Mac Allister controlled midfield, as Wirtz delivered some of the subtle touches that made his name at Bayer Leverkusen. Ekitike posed continuous threats throughout the match.

Liverpool were, unlike so often recent performances, extremely solid at the back as the French star was neutralized, showing poorly with multiple errors. Vinicius had been beaten by Bradley long before the end.

Although representing a tough occasion for the defender, it was not much better for Bellingham, offered the Anfield stage to showcase once more his ability ahead of the national team manager announces his team in the coming matches after being left out recently.

He provided one moment of danger during the opening period when he forced Giorgi Mamardashvili to save with his legs, yet remained largely invisible {as Real failed to establish|