Electric Liverpool swat aside Real Madrid as Mbappe misses from spot

Alexis Mac Allister and substitute Cody Gakpo were on target as Liverpool continued their flawless start to the UEFA Champions League courtesy of a magnificent 2-0 victory over holders Real Madrid at Anfield.

Arne Slot’s Reds dominated for long spells and went close to breaking the deadlock prior to the interval, but Thibaut Courtois brilliantly denied Darwin Nunez.

The hosts moved up a gear following the break and went in front when Mac Allister played a one-two with Conor Bradley and fired a low shot into the far corner on 52 minutes.

Both sides then took turns to fluff their lines from the penalty spot with Kylian Mbappe thwarted by Caoimhin Kelleher before Mo Salah hit the outside of the post in front of the Kop.

Liverpool eventually got the second goal their performance deserved when Gakpo rose highest to power Andy Robertson’s cross into the far corner 14 minutes from time.

The result sees The Merseysiders move back to the summit of the UEFA Champions League standings with five wins from five matches.

Real are way down in 23rd spot having lost three of their five outings.

Liverpool will now switch focus to a crunch Premier League clash with champions Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday, while Real Madrid host Getafe in La Liga.