Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister revels in the post-match celebrations. — Reuters

Manager Arne Slot expressed his relief on Wednesday as Liverpool secured their first victory over Real Madrid in 15 years, but emphasized that he was not allowing himself to get too excited about his team's flawless start in the Champions League. Goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo in the second half secured a well-deserved win for the Reds, who had last defeated the Champions League holders in 2009. "You understand the significance of facing a team that has won the Champions League multiple times. They have been a thorn in Liverpool's side for many years," said a jubilant Slot, whose team now boasts a perfect record of five wins from five in Europe's premier club competition.

"I believe it's always beneficial to win, particularly in a high-stakes match like this, where you encounter so many top-tier players," he added. "We are only five games into the new format, we are content with our position, but we are not getting ahead of ourselves." With his team leading both the Champions League and the Premier League, Slot has made a remarkable start since taking over from Juergen Klopp, enhancing defensive solidity and midfield control without compromising the team's attacking prowess. "I didn't set a specific point target. You aim to establish the playing style as quickly as possible. That wasn't challenging because it wasn't vastly different from Juergen's," he explained.

MAN CITY UP NEXT

Slot lavished praise on 21-year-old Conor Bradley, whose fantastic first-half tackle against Kylian Mbappe electrified the Anfield crowd, and on Caoimhin Kelleher, who saved a second-half penalty from the Real Madrid striker. Goalscorer Mac Allister echoed his manager's caution against overconfidence, dismissing suggestions that Liverpool are now the favorites to win the Champions League. "It's nice, but it doesn't mean anything because it's just the initial phase," he said, referring to the new 36-team league format before the knockout stages begin. "We are pleased with our performances, that’s the most crucial aspect, and we will continue to push forward." Liverpool's next challenge is a Premier League clash with Manchester City on Sunday, offering them a chance to extend their lead over their main domestic rivals to 11 points.

"Man City haven't been in the best form lately, but they are an exceptional team," said Kelleher. "So we are preparing for another tough test, and it's vital that we keep winning in the league to maintain that gap."

Source link:   https://www.khaleejtimes.com