Liverpool’s remarkable run in the Champions League continues as they maintain a perfect record with six wins out of six. Mohamed Salah’s decisive penalty secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Girona, leaving the Reds on the verge of qualification for the Champions League last 16.
The turning point came in the second half when former Manchester United and Everton midfielder Donny van de Beek clipped Luis Diaz’s heel in the penalty area. Salah stepped up with confidence and slotted the ball past Girona’s goalkeeper, Paulo Gazzaniga, who dived the wrong way. This marked Salah’s 46th Champions League goal, a testament to his exceptional consistency.
Goalkeeper Alisson Becker made a triumphant return after a hamstring injury, delivering several crucial saves to preserve Liverpool’s clean sheet. The Brazilian stopped efforts from Bryan Gil, Miguel Gutierrez, and Yaser Asprilla in the first half and denied Arnaut Danjuma from close range in the second.
Liverpool now top the Champions League league-phase table and are virtually assured of a place in the knockout-phase play-offs. A single point from their remaining two fixtures against Lille and PSV Eindhoven will confirm their advancement to the last 16. Alternatively, favorable results in other matches could secure their position sooner.
Having already clinched a spot in the knockout phase, Liverpool are demonstrating why they are among Europe’s elite teams. Their dominance this season has been reflected not only in their European campaign but also in their recent form, winning 16 of their last 18 matches across all competitions.
Alisson Returns and Salah Shines Again
Alisson Becker returned to the starting lineup for Liverpool after missing over two months due to a hamstring injury sustained against Crystal Palace on October 5. In his absence, Caoimhin Kelleher provided solid cover but was criticized for conceding a late equalizer in the 3-3 draw with Newcastle.
The experienced Brazilian keeper wasted no time showcasing his class, making vital saves to deny Girona’s attackers. Alisson’s quick reactions were key to thwarting opportunities from Miguel Gutierrez and Yaser Asprilla, and his commanding presence provided a solid foundation for Liverpool’s defensive efforts.
Girona’s best chance of the match fell to former Manchester United defender Daley Blind, who failed to capitalize on Gutierrez’s cross. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s attack tested Gazzaniga early, with Joe Gomez’s header tipped over and Darwin Nunez denied in a one-on-one situation.
Ultimately, it was Mohamed Salah who once again delivered for Liverpool. The Egyptian forward has been in sensational form, scoring 16 goals in 22 matches this season, including seven in his last six games. Against a Girona side struggling in Europe, Salah’s clinical penalty was the difference-maker.
Liverpool’s overall form has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since their loss to Nottingham Forest on September 14, they have remained unbeaten in 18 matches, securing 16 victories and two draws. As the Reds prepare for January clashes against Lille and PSV Eindhoven, they continue to build momentum in their pursuit of European glory.
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