Atletico strike first — Giuliano Simeone in the 17th minute
Anfield braced itself for a difficult evening and Liverpool got exactly that from the very first whistle. Atletico Madrid, playing with 55% possession, were bold and aggressive — a surprise to many. Diego Simeone set his team up with a high press from the start. In the 17th minute, Giuliano Simeone — the manager's son — received a pass from Alvarez and beat Alisson with a precise low finish. 0:1. Anfield fell silent.
Liverpool responded with intensity. Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola worked tirelessly, probing for gaps in Atletico's defensive structure. Oblak was outstanding — he made three saves in the first half alone. In the 29th minute Mac Allister received a yellow card for dissent, adding to the tension.
Wirtz and Isak turn it around — 2:1 at the break and at the final whistle
Just before half-time, Liverpool found the equaliser. In the 40th minute Alexander Isak — a key summer addition — won a header against Romero and levelled at 1:1. Anfield erupted. Five minutes after the restart, in the 50th minute, Florian Wirtz — another summer signing — struck after a sharp combination with Barcola. 2:1 to Liverpool.
Atletico made a double substitution in the 59th minute — Koke and Barrios were withdrawn — and pushed desperately for an equaliser. Liverpool finished with 45% possession but 7 shots on target against Atletico's 4. Oblak made three more saves but could not prevent the defeat. Liverpool win 2:1, three points on the opening matchday of their new Champions League campaign.