Liverpool overcame Real Madrid in a blockbuster clash on a classic Champions League night at Anfield.
What looked like a simple 1-0 win was anything but, with visiting keeper Thibaut Courtois making multiple stunning saves - including several from the excellent Dominik Szoboszlai - to keep his side in it.
Ultimately the Hungarian was denied a goal but did provide the assist, with a stunning second-half free-kick headed in by Alexis Mac Allister for the Argentine’s first goal since February.
Liverpool were unlucky to not already be ahead at that point after they were controversially denied a penalty, with referee István Kovács eventually deciding Aurelien Tchouameni did not handle the ball on the edge of the area, and chalking off the free-kick he had originally awarded after going to the monitor.
There was more drama later in the game as substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold - booed by sections of fans during the warm-up - received an even more hostile reception as he came off the bench for Arda Guler with around ten minutes of normal time remaining.
Relive the updates from Liverpool v Real Madrid, below:
Liverpool v Real Madrid live: Latest Champions League updates
- Liverpool defeat Real Madrid in Champions League
- '28 SAVE! Courtois makes brilliant block to deny Szoboszlai [LIV 0-0 RMA]
- '33 NO PENALTY! Controversial call as Liverpool denied penalty for Tchouameni handball [LIV 0-0 RMA]
- '45 SAVE! Courtois blocks fine Szoboszlai effort again [LIV 0-0 RMA]
- '48 DOUBLE SAVE! Courtois denies Van Dijk and Ekitike with two fingertip saves [LIV 0-0 RMA]
- '61 GOAL! Mac Allister heads in opener from superb Szoboszlai free-kick [LIV 1-0 RMA]
- '81 SUB! Trent roundly booed as he replaces Guler [LIV 1-0 RMA]
Arne Slot thrilled as Liverpool beat ‘incredible’ Real Madrid
08:27 , Jamie BraidwoodLiverpool head coach Arne Slot hailed an impressive performance against an “incredible” Real Madrid after Alexis Mac Allister’s header secured a 1-0 Champions League win.
The hosts’ domination was reflected in the statistics which saw them force Thibaut Courtois, the goalkeeper who broke their hearts in the 2022 final, to make nine saves from a total of 17 attempted shots.
By comparison a front five of Kylian Mbappe, who had scored in all but two of his matches this season, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler and Eduardo Camavinga managed just two on target between them.
Arne Slot thrilled as Liverpool beat ‘incredible’ Real Madrid
Virgil van Dijk says Liverpool criticism has been ‘over the top'
08:25 , Jamie BraidwoodVirgil van Dijk has responded to criticism by several pundits and ex-players of Liverpool after their mixed start to the season, saying it has been “over the top at times”.
A run of four successive league defeats and six losses in seven games left many wondering whether the reigning Premier League champions were in crisis.
Wayne Rooney was among the critical voices, with the former Manchester United player questioning Van Dijk and Mohamed Salah’s leadership this season and suggesting their body language had a negative effect on other players.
Virgil van Dijk says Liverpool criticism has been ‘over the top at times’
Xabi Alonso: Trent booing 'could be expected'
Tuesday 4 November 2025 23:30 , Flo CliffordXabi Alonso says: “Well, it could be expected [the booing]. He was focused and wanted to be part of it. So first time. He has challenges for him - it is new experience. Step by step, but we are happy we have him.”
Alexander-Arnold booing 'to give their team the edge', Bellingham says
Tuesday 4 November 2025 23:20 , Flo CliffordBellingham weighs in on the booing of his friend and teammate Alexander-Arnold. He says: “Obviously, it is one of those things in football. The fans booing isn't a reflection of how they feel about him.
“I think it is more to give their team the edge and throw him off a little bit. I am sure they're appreciative of what he has done for the club. It is one of those things.”
Asked about a possible England call-up in next week’s squad, he says: “I would love to be, but it's not my call.”
'We were a lot worse off last season' - Jude Bellingham
Tuesday 4 November 2025 23:10 , Flo CliffordJude Bellingham tells Amazon Prime: “I think the scoreline reflects the game. They slightly edged it in the second half they brought a bit more.
“Second half, their momentum took over and they edged it.
“After they scored, it felt like we wanted to force things a little too much. Things to learn, still really early in the season and still early in the Champions League campaign. We were a lot worse off last season and still managed to get through.”
'Football can change over night' - Virgil van Dijk
Tuesday 4 November 2025 22:52 , Flo CliffordMore from Virgil: “You can see at the moment Arsenal are flying, and it is down to clean sheets and not conceding chances.
“We have the quality to hurt anyone on the break - it starts with the defending. Today you saw the hard work.
“We have to keep going. Sunday is going to be another difficult one. We all know how football works - it can change over night.”
Criticism 'over the top at times' - Virgil van Dijk
Tuesday 4 November 2025 22:45 , Flo CliffordVan Dijk now responds to some of the criticism, including from the pundits standing next to him.
“It is easy to say now because we won twice in a row - in a world of chaos you have to stay calm and see perspective of things.
“At times the noise was a lot. It’s very important to put things into perspective, get your head down and work.
“I am living with players that might have been affected by it. If you lose a game for Liverpool - four, five games – there is criticism - that is normal in a sense.
“It is over the top at times. I think it's because we live in the world of so many platforms, so many people can say stuff, and it can be picked up. Ex-players that played at the highest level had difficult moments as well.
“I want to perform for the team, the club and everyone who supports us through thick and thin.”
Wayne Rooney looks suitably chastened by that.
'We performed our game plan perfectly' - Virgil van Dijk
Tuesday 4 November 2025 22:38 , Flo CliffordVirgil van Dijk is next to speak to Amazon Prime; he’s pretty pleased but staying measured. “There was a alot of energy and lot of hard work in the performance tonight. They won 14 of the last 15 games, have a lot of quality.
“We know their strengths, how they can punish you, we've seen that in the last few weeks. We had to be spot on in everything we do.
“Sometimes you come in a low block and that is something we had to accept. I thought we performed our game plan perfectly.”
Relentless Liverpool banish recent woes with redefining victory over Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 22:32 , Richard JollyArne Slot could be forgiven for thinking this is an annual event in autumn on Merseyside. For the second consecutive year, Real Madrid were beaten on a heady amid an electric Anfield atmosphere. Just like last year, Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring, the World Cup winner serving as the scourge of the European Cup’s most storied club.
The difference – and perhaps the reason why this felt a still greater feat – is that Liverpool had stumbled into a potentially defining week. After six defeats in seven games, they have overcome Aston Villa, winners of one European Cup, and Real, winners of a mere 15. From the worst run of Slot’s managerial career, Liverpool delivered their best performance of the season.
Relentless Liverpool banish recent woes with redefining victory over Real Madrid
Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 22:25 , Flo CliffordSo many great performances tonight. Dominik Szoboszlai was imperious, Florian Wirtz looked to be properly clicking, Alexis Mac Allister scored a brilliant goal, but best of all might have been Conor Bradley, who made Vini Jr look pretty amateur at points and really rose to the occasion.
Alexis Mac Allister: 'We deserved to win'
Tuesday 4 November 2025 22:18 , Flo CliffordA smiley Alexis Mac Allister tells Amazon Prime: “It was a good game against a really good team. Important win but we know it doesn't mean anything.
“We have the experience of finishing first last season and we went out early. It's important to build confidence.
“One of the most special goals [I've scored here].”
He agrees Courtois seemed unbeatable at times: “It looked like it! He had a few saves, so again I think he is a really good keeper, but today I think we were better and deserved to win.”
Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 22:12 , Flo CliffordLiverpool got the better of Real Madrid by nearly every measure: 17 shots, nine on target, to the visitors’ eight and two respectively; and 27 touches in the opposition box to Real’s 26, with under 39 per cent possession compared to 61.
Liverpool move up to sixth in the Champions League table; Real remain fifth.
Daniel Sturridge on Amazon Prime says “it meant more to Liverpool tonight”, which feels accurate. He says Real “underwhelmed everybody”.
FULL-TIME: Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 22:05 , Richard JollyA brilliant night for Liverpool. Their best performance of the season and, while they also beat Arsenal, their best result, with some outstanding performances across the team, but particularly in midfield
FULL-TIME: Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:56 , Flo CliffordLiverpool take their time with the free-kick... and that’s more or less the last kick of the game!
Anfield goes wild!
If it hadn’t been for Courtois that scoreline could have been much worse for the visitors. Liverpool crisis, what crisis?
Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:55 , Flo Clifford90+5 mins: Carreras gets a yellow for slamming into Chiesa as Liverpool try to counter again.
Xabi Alonso is not a happy man on the touchline.... ooh, and he gets a yellow for his protestations!
Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:54 , Flo Clifford90+4 mins: Brahim Diaz is the next to move forward for the visitors, but Konate works it out... long ball forward, Salah wants it down the right with Chiesa in space in the centre, but Courtois sprints off his line to punt clear.
Huge, ironic cheers as Trent Alexander-Arnold lobs in a cross that goes nowhere.
Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:51 , Flo Clifford90+2 mins: Bradley gets the better of Vini Jr again, a brilliant sliding tackle.
Konate heads away the resulting Real corner, but they recycle... Szoboszlai sticks to Mbappe like glue and his reward is a goal kick.
Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:50 , Flo Clifford90 mins: There’s a break in play as Kerkez receives some treatment; he’s hopping, but seems okay to continue. Brahim Diaz comes on for Valverde.
FIVE minutes added on. Can Liverpool see this out?
Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:49 , Flo Clifford88 mins: Robertson gets a warm reception as he is replaced by Kerkez. Wirtz, who has also put in quite the shift, is off for Chiesa.
Kerkez is immediately left in a heap after Tchouameni - that man again - leaves a crunching challenge on him.
CLOSE! Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:46 , Flo Clifford87 mins: Salah is let loose down the left, laying it off for Gakpo at close range, but he’s denied by Courtois!
Salah attempts to get the rebound but a sweeping clearance by Militao denies him. SO, so close...
Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:45 , Flo Clifford86 mins: Salah gets the better of Carreras and jinks into the box, where Vini Jr eventually manages to smother the ball, just before Courtois can.
Rodrygo tries to counter, but his lay-off doesn’t meet his target man.
Bradley wins another duel with Vini Jr, to an absolutely resounding response. He’s been really impressive.
Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:41 , Flo Clifford81 mins: It’s Trent Alexander-Arnold time... and time for a raucous chorus of booing.
He replaces Guler.
Some people are applauding him, but they are certainly being drowned out.
Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:38 , Flo Clifford79 mins: Dangerous counter by Liverpool, Robertson plays a long ball into the path of Salah but Carreras stays with his man and punts it out.
Robertson gets a warning for taking the throw-in too slowly. Real nab possession but the move stutters.
Subs for Liverpool now: Jones and Gakpo are on, for goalscorer Mac Allister - who gets a rousing send-off - and Ekitike.
CLOSE! Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:35 , Flo Clifford75 mins: Real are having a little bit more possession; again the tempo has dropped slightly, although the visitors are pressing. Vini Jr aims the ball at Bellingham at the back post, but Robertson is there to clear...
Now out of nowhere Mbappe is in space, he takes it on the half-volley from Vini Jr on the left but it bends wide!
Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:31 , Flo Clifford71 mins: Attacking change for Real: Rodrygo comes on for Camavinga.
“Mo Salah,” rings out around Anfield, after the Egyptian is knocked over. He’s been fairly quiet tonight, but industrious all the same.
A few more Madrid players are warming up, and no prizes for guessing who one of them is, by the volume of booing....
Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:29 , Richard JollyFor the second successive season, it is Mac Allister who scores against Real. And Szoboszlai, superb so far, gets the assist. Each has deserved that.
Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:27 , Flo Clifford67 mins: Wirtz receives some attention from the physio after coming off worse against Mbappe. Bit of a clip of the elbow to the ear; but he’s fine to continue, albeit gingerly.
Play should have stopped earlier than it did given that was a facial injury, and Slot signals as much to the fourth official.
GOAL STANDS! Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:22 , Flo Clifford63 mins: Check over, Bellingham was keeping him onside, and Anfield once again goes wild!
VAR CHECK: Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:22 , Flo Clifford63 mins: The curling delivery is magnificent, and Mac Allister guides his header straight past Courtois. It’s the Argentine’s first goal since April.
Anfield goes wild... but it’s subject to a check. Potential offside in the build-up?
GOAL! Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:20 , Flo Clifford61 mins: Bellingham is next to be given a yellow, for lunging in late on Gravenberch. That’s the second time he’s done that.
It’s another Liverpool free-kick, this time just on the right corner of the 18-yard box. Szoboszlai launches it in... and Mac Allister finally gets the header in!!!
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:17 , Flo Clifford58 mins: Van Dijk pushes Mbappe in the face and the Frenchman is only too happy to go to ground, with much grimacing. The referee decides it’s not worth a booking.
Some of the pace has gone out of this now.
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:15 , Flo Clifford56 mins: Tchouameni clatters Szoboszlai, once again in very free-kick-able range. Courtois remonstrates with his team, directing them where to stand.
The Hungarian stands over it on the left... he chips it this time, but Bellingham is there to clear.
Real counter through Vini Jr but Liverpool get bodies behind.
SAVE! Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:12 , Flo Clifford53 mins: Liverpool have made another very bright start. Belgium keeper Courtois is not going to be on Arne Slot’s Christmas card list at this rate.
Szoboszlai stands over a free-kick, 22 yards out or so... his delivery clears the wall but Courtois hops up to punch away, again.
Mac Allister goes into the book for a cynical shirt-pull on a dangerously speedy Mbappe.
SAVE! Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:08 , Flo Clifford49 mins: Salah curls the ball across the box to Robertson at the far post, but he’s caught slightly off-balance. The ball goes behind for a corner.
As they prepare to take it Van Dijk has a laugh with Vini Jr, who looks like a small child marking his dad.
Oh my goodness, it’s nearly flicked in by van Dijk, but Courtois punches it over the bar!
Liverpool have another corner and this time Courtois leaps up to get his fingertips to Ekitike’s excellent header, pushing over the bar aagin!
And Ekitike now has another pop from the resulting corner, but the header is just dragged wide.
SECOND HALF: Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 21:04 , Flo CliffordThe players are back out, and we’re nearly ready to resume.
It has at least stopped chucking it down with quite the same ferocity as earlier.
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:58 , Richard JollySzoboszlai almost won a penalty and almost had a goal earlier and he has been ubiquitous in the first half. He has been arguably Liverpool's best player this season and arguably the best on the pitch so far.
HALF-TIME: Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:52 , Flo CliffordWhat an absorbing first half. Plenty happened, mostly between Szoboszlai and Courtois, but the major talking point is that highly controversial non-awarded penalty.
Real Madrid will likely be happy with it being goalless at the break; that late Bellingham attempt was their only serious moment of threat.
SAVE! Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:50 , Flo Clifford45+2 mins: Now Mac Allister has a go at the near post, it’s saved, Robertson tries to recycle... yet more breathless stuff to end this thrilling first half.
Off for a breather now.
The officials are booed off, unsurprisingly.
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:47 , Flo Clifford45 mins: Two minutes added on. Huijsen goes into the book for a late lunge on Ekitike.
SAVE! Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:46 , Flo Clifford45 mins: Massive save by Courtois again! It’s Szoboszlai again, this time from a tight angle, but Courtois rises to get a hand to it. The rebound works its way behind for a corner... Wirtz takes, Militao thumps it away.
Now Bellingham cuts inside and shoots from close range but Mamardashvili sticks his foot out at the near post!
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:42 , Flo Clifford41 mins: Now Real Madrid want a penalty as Robertson tackles Guler in the box, nabbing the ball off him; referee Kovacs points at the ball to indicate the Scot got enough of that and not his man. He’s been lucky there, although not as lucky as Tchouameni a few minutes ago.
Anfield make their distate known as Vini Jr launches himself at the ground in an obvious dive, under pressure from Bradley, and clutches his face to indicate he’s been caught by a stray arm. No chance. The Brazilian has now guaranteed himself boos at every touch.
Plenty of needle and drama in this one already.
SAVE! Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:38 , Flo Clifford37 mins: Former referee Mark Clattenberg, speaking on Amazon Prime, isn’t a fan of that decision at all. Nor is Alan Shearer.
Anfield is fuming but Liverpool are trying to respond with as much intent as before. Szoboszlai goes for a low strike towards the bottom left corner, but Courtois is onto him.
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:35 , Flo Clifford34 mins: That looked clearly in the box to me, but the official call is it was not a handball offence; Tchouameni had his arm in a natural position, Kovacs says, so no free-kick either!
A massive call.
NO PENALTY! Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:34 , Flo Clifford33 mins: The Real players are ushered away as they crowd around the screen...
Referee István Kovács says no penalty! That’ll be controversial.
PENALTY CHECK: Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:33 , Flo Clifford32 mins: It looked like Tchouameni’s arm which blocked the shot was inside the box.
The referee is invited to watch the replay...
PENALTY? Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:32 , Flo Clifford31 mins: Courtois comes well off his line to stop the marauding Ekitike... but Liverpool come again, it’s Szoboszlai but his shot is blocked by the diving Tchouameni.
The Kop is howling for a penalty for handball, but it’s a free-kick just to the right on the edge of the box.
Hang on, potential penalty check by VAR....
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:30 , Flo CliffordIf anyone needed reminding...
Thibaut Courtois was Liverpool's nemesis in the 2022 final and that was a superb save from Szoboszlai.
SAVE! Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:29 , Flo Clifford28 mins: After that early flurry by Liverpool the visitors have been dominating possession.
Time for another breathless spell... Wirtz is trying to find Mac Allister but the referee gets in his way and gets a right earful from the crowd. Real Madrid seize the chance to counter and Bradley hauls down Carreras just inside the box, before undoing that good work with a cheaply misplaced pass. Still Real...
Tchouameni goes for a low strike, but wide... now Liverpool counter, Wirtz lays it off for Szoboszlai in the centre but Courtois makes himself huge and clears it with his outstretched right foot!
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:25 , Flo Clifford24 mins: Valverde hooks the resulting free-kick well beyond the far post.
Real Madrid’s travelling support joined in the Diogo Jota chant, which is lovely to see.
Bradley draws the foul from Vini Jr with a brilliant run, and the Brazilian is the first into the book. Szoboszlai stands over it... nodded down but nowhere by Konate.
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:23 , Flo Clifford21 mins: 20 minutes in, Anfield stands as one and applauds in memory of Diogo Jota.
Konate intercepts a ball from Vini Jr, who has been as lively as you’d expect - although Bradley seems to be enjoying his duel with him so far.
Van Dijk steps in on Mbappe and concedes a free-kick.
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:19 , Flo Clifford18 mins: Wirtz makes the interception and gallops down the pitch... Ekitike is on the receiving end but has his shot blocked.
Now Bellingham counters, plays a tidy one-two with Vini Jr, lays it off to Mbappe on the edge of the box... but he blasts it dismally high. Warning signs for Liverpool.
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:17 , Flo Clifford15 mins: Anfield show their displeasure as the ref opts not to award Salah a free-kick after a heavy touch by Carreras, with the Egyptian staying upright and getting himself into the box before Huijsen steps in.
CHANCE! Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:13 , Flo Clifford11 mins: That’s more like it from Wirtz, making a mockery of Huijsen near the corner flag and working the ball inside to Szoboszlai, who squares to Mac Allister - but he toe-pokes it wide and high from a good position. Best chance of the night so far and Anfield show their appreciation.
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:10 , Richard JollyThe Kop have sung "one Conor Bradley". There is a message there to their former right-back, Alexander-Arnold. But there are also signs already that Bradley has his work cut out to stop Vinicius Junior.
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:08 , Flo Clifford6 mins: Conor Bradley’s name has been chanted in a most pointed manner by the Anfield faithful.
Vinicius Jr cuts inside on the left and tries to find Bellingham in a central position, but he gets in a tangle. Mostly Liverpool so far... although Vini Jr is the man trying to change that.
Bradley does well to stand up to his man and avert the danger a second time.
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:05 , Flo Clifford3 mins: Liverpool start brightly, Mac Allister having an attempt blocked accidentally by Salah, before Ekitike finds Wirtz down the right channel... but his teammate is not quite on the same page.
Ekitike launches himself on a Real Madrid player and concedes a free-kick.
KICK-OFF: Liverpool vs Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 20:01 , Flo CliffordHere we go!
Liverpool vs Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 19:58 , Flo CliffordAfter a typically rousing rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone, the players head out into the pouring rain. Lots of jeering and whistling for the visitors.
Moments to go...
Team news
Tuesday 4 November 2025 19:55 , Flo CliffordQuick reminder of tonight’s teams:
Liverpool: Mamardashvili, Van Dijk, Konate, Wirtz, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Salah, Bradley, Ekitike, Robertson, Gravenberch
Subs: Woodman, Misciur, Gomez, Endo, Kerkez, Chiesa, Jones, Gakpo, Ngumoha
Real Madrid XI: Courtois, Valverde, Militao, Huijsen, Carreras, Tchouameni, Camavinga, Guler, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr, Mbappe
Subs: Lunin, Fran Gonzalez, Endrick, Rodrugo, Trent, Gonzalo, Asencio, Ceballos, Fran Garcia, Brahim, Mendy
Trent Alexander-Arnold booed in warm-up
Tuesday 4 November 2025 19:53 , Richard JollyTrent Alexander-Arnold was booed by some of the Liverpool fans in the warm up and when his name was read out. Perhaps unsuprisingly but it may be a taste of what lies in hand if he comes on.
Arne Slot on Wirtz: 'If I play him, you ask about him'
Tuesday 4 November 2025 19:50 , Flo CliffordArne Slot tells Amazon Prime: “I feel every time right for Florian Wirtz, but I have more than 11 players to choose from. So tonight, as many times before, I've decided to play him.
“If I play him, you ask about him. If I don't play him, you ask about him. But he plays tonight, yeah.
“He's the left-winger tonight,” he adds, confirming the Germany international is a direct replacement for Cody Gakpo.
'We need your support from the first whistle to the last' - Virgil van Dijk
Tuesday 4 November 2025 19:45 , Flo CliffordVirgil van Dijk has his say in the matchday programme. He says: “Saturday [the 2-0 win over Aston Villa] was a step in the right direction, for sure, but now we need to follow that up with another big performance in a big game.
“And games don't come much bigger than Real Madrid at Anfield in the Champions League.
“It goes without saying that we are all really looking forward to the challenge, and I am sure you guys are as well. These are the nights you live for as a player.
“We know what to expect, of course, and they will too. This time last year, we produced one of our best performances of the whole season to beat them 2-0, and deservedly so. We were excellent that night, producing a real team display.
“That, I remember, was also one of the best atmospheres of the whole season, and we will need more of the same this evening. We need noise, we need passion and we need your support from the first whistle to the last.”
'Clasico of European football' - Xabi Alonso
Tuesday 4 November 2025 19:40 , Flo CliffordXabi Alonso says: “It's a 'clasico' of European football [against] Liverpool because of their history in the Champions League. It's one of those games the fans really look forward to seeing.
“Trent [Alexander-Arnold] and myself have our history here at Liverpool and it's always great to come to a place where they've loved you so much. We're coming to do our thing, which is to play well and come away with a good result.”
Fans gather at Anfield
Tuesday 4 November 2025 19:35 , Flo Clifford
How the league stands
Tuesday 4 November 2025 19:29 , Flo CliffordHeading into tonight’s clash Real Madrid sit fifth in the Champions League table with three wins from three.
After the heady highs of topping the table last year Liverpool are a fair way off that at this point, three points behind their opponents with two wins from three.
Fans arriving
Tuesday 4 November 2025 19:22 , Flo CliffordTwo Real Madrid fans have got engaged in the away end, which I’d say speaks volumes about their confidence that tonight’s result on the pitch won’t ruin their special day...
'Already a difficult day' for Trent Alexander-Arnold
Tuesday 4 November 2025 19:15 , Richard JollySenior Football Correspondent Richard Jolly is at Anfield. Here’s his take on tonight’s team news:
Trent Alexander-Arnold's Anfield return comes, as expected, as a substitute, with Fede Valverde preferred at right-back. It has already been a difficult day for the Liverpudlian and former Liverpool vice-captain, with his mural near Anfield being defaced. Valverde's tasks include facing Florian Wirtz, who has been recalled by Arne Slot and whose best Liverpool form so far has come in the Champions League. Liverpool were outstanding in it at this stage last season, including a 2-0 win over Real Madrid and a 4-0 win over a Xabi Alonso team, a Bayer Leverkusen side including Wirtz. This season could prove tougher, though.
Players arriving
Tuesday 4 November 2025 19:05 , Flo Clifford
Team news - Alexander-Arnold benched
Tuesday 4 November 2025 18:56 , Flo CliffordAs for Real Madrid... Trent Alexander-Arnold is named on the bench as he continues his return from a hamstring injury.
Boss Xabi Alonso said he would be available to play “any number of minutes”. He was an unused substitute at the weekend so it’s unsurprising he hasn’t found his way into the first XI yet.
Valverde is preferred at right-back instead, while Alonso has made only one change from their 4-0 win over Valencia last time out: Edouardo Camavinga is in for injured teenager Franco Mastantuono, who is dealing with a groin issue.
Team news - Wirtz starts
Tuesday 4 November 2025 18:51 , Flo CliffordArne Slot defended Florian Wirtz ahead of tonight’s game and has rewarded him with a starting berth.
His introduction into the first XI is the only change from the weekend’s win over Aston Villa, as Cody Gakpo drops to the bench.
Curtis Jones is available as a substitute after recovering from a minor injury.
Line-ups - Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 18:49 , Flo CliffordReal Madrid XI: Courtois, Valverde, Militao, Huijsen, Carreras, Tchouameni, Camavinga, Guler, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr, Mbappe
Subs: Lunin, Fran Gonzalez, Endrick, Rodrugo, Trent, Gonzalo, Asencio, Ceballos, Fran Garcia, Brahim, Mendy
📋✅ ¡Nuestro XI inicial!
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) November 4, 2025
🆚 @LFC pic.twitter.com/jtvuKMR8xZ
Line-ups - Liverpool
Tuesday 4 November 2025 18:46 , Flo CliffordLiverpool: Mamardashvili, Van Dijk, Konate, Wirtz, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Salah, Bradley, Ekitike, Robertson, Gravenberch.
Subs: Woodman, Misciur, Gomez, Endo, Kerkez, Chiesa, Jones, Gakpo, Ngumoha.
The Reds to take on Real Madrid 👊🔴 #UCL
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) November 4, 2025
Arne Slot defends Florian Wirtz despite underwhelming start to Liverpool career
Tuesday 4 November 2025 18:35 , Flo CliffordArne Slot has defended Florian Wirtz after the midfielder’s slightly underwhelming start to life at Liverpool.
He has started on the bench in four major Premier League encounters, with Slot preferring the tried and tested midfield trio of title winners Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai in key games.
But Slot said on Monday: “You can say he has started one of the last four but you can say he has started eight, nine, 10 or 11 games this season. I’ve said this quite a lot, not to be used as an excuse but to tell it how it is; many times we have had to play three games in seven days with no rest in between.
“For a player who comes from a different league, which is a very good league by the way, but people would agree the Premier League is a bit more intense in all of the games. The top games (in the Premier League and Bundesliga) are similar but all of the games.
“If you look at that, he has already played a lot in many games but he’s been unlucky with the end product either by himself or his team-mates,” Slot continued.
Arne Slot explains Florian Wirtz’s struggles and logic behind dropping Liverpool star
Potential line-ups
Tuesday 4 November 2025 18:20 , Flo CliffordAround half an hour until line-ups are revealed; until then, we’re expecting something along these lines...
Liverpool XI: Mamardashvili, Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Salah, Ekitike, Gakpo
Real Madrid XI: Courtois; Valverde, Militao, Huijsen, Mendy; Tchouameni, Camavinga, Guler; Bellingham, Mbappe, Vinicius Jr
Is Liverpool v Real Madrid on TV? Channel, kick-off time and how to watch
Tuesday 4 November 2025 18:05 , Jamie BraidwoodLiverpool host Real Madrid at Anfield tonight in a Champions League clash bursting with storylines.
Trent Alexander-Arnold will be making his first return to his boyhood club after joining the Spanish giants in the summer, with the right back expecting a hostile reception following his controversial move. Fans defaced the iconic Alexander-Arnold mural near Anfield before kick-off on Tuesday.
Xabi Alonso will also return to Anfield after taking charge of Real Madrid, who have bounced back into form and travel to Merseyside on a run of six consecutive victories in all competitions.
Liverpool ended their run of defeats with a 2-0 win over Aston Villa on Saturday and Arne Slot’s side now enter a crucial spell where they face Real Madrid and then Manchester City in successive games.
Slot’s side defeated Real Madrid 2-0 at this stage of the Champions League last season, with Kylian Mbappe missing a penalty, but there has been plenty of change at both clubs in the year since.
Here’s everything you need to know
Is Liverpool v Real Madrid on TV? Channel, time and how to watch Champions League
Arne Slot: 'I will always appreciate Trent's contribution'
Tuesday 4 November 2025 17:50 , Jamie BraidwoodArne Slot also said in his programme notes that he will “always appreciate” Trent Alexander-Arnold’s contribution to Liverpool’s title-winning season and that he is looking forward to seeing his former vice-captain.
"I would like to welcome Xabi Alonso, his players and staff and the directors of Real Madrid to Anfield for this fixture,” Slot wrote. “There is a great deal of respect between our two clubs so hopefully this will continue after our latest encounter, even though everyone involved knows how keenly it will be contested.
"Obviously I do not know which team Xabi will select but the likelihood is that Trent Alexander-Arnold will be in the squad after injury. At Liverpool, we know better than most how much quality Trent has and on a personal level I will always appreciate Trent's contribution to our title-winning team last season because he was a big part of what we achieved. It will be good to see him again, even though it will be strange seeing him in white rather than red.”
Arne Slot thanks Liverpool fans for their support
Tuesday 4 November 2025 17:35 , Jamie BraidwoodArne Slot has underlined his gratitude after Liverpool fans sung his name during the 2-0 win over Aston Villa on Saturday.
The Reds had lost four Premier League games in a row before that match, and there was some scrutiny on Slot for the first time since taking charge.
But Liverpool fans responded by singing the Dutchman’s name when the game was still 0-0.
“I would like to reiterate my personal gratitude for the support that we received at the weekend,” Slot wrote in his programme notes.
“This was not a surprise in any way because everything I know about the Liverpool fans tells me that they are special in the way they back their team when things are not going so well, but to be on the receiving end of this support – both collectively and individually – is something that none of us will ever take for granted.
Trent Alexander-Arnold cleaned ahead of Liverpool-Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 17:20 , Jamie BraidwoodTrent Alexander-Arnold’s mural was cleaned by volunteers earlier this afternoon, having been defaced overnight.
“Rat not welcome” and “Adios el rata” were scribbled across the bottom of the mural with workers cleaning it at lunchtime.
The vandalism suggests a hostile reception for Alexander-Arnold tonight at Anfield as both teams clash in the Champions League.
The Trent Alexander-Arnold mural on Sybil Road, near Anfield, has been defaced ahead of the Real Madrid defender’s return tonight. Workmen currently in the process of cleaning it off, via @LivEchonews. pic.twitter.com/WwKCaDxTzE
— Paul Gorst (@ptgorst) November 4, 2025
Liverpool v Real Madrid head-to-head
Tuesday 4 November 2025 17:05 , Jamie BraidwoodHaving met just once in the 20th century, with Liverpool beating Real Madrid 1-0 in the 1981 European Cup final in Paris, these teams have clashed several times over the last few seasons, developing a modern-day rivalry.
As well as the 2018 and 2022 finals, both won by Real Madrid, the Spanish side also progressed in knockout ties in 2021 and 2023.
When Liverpool beat Real Madrid 2-0 last season, it ended a run of eight games without a win against the 15-time Champions League winners.
Overall, Real Madrid have seven wins and Liverpool have four, with one draw.
Arne Slot will welcome Trent Alexander-Arnold back to Anfield
Tuesday 4 November 2025 16:50 , Jamie BraidwoodArne Slot said he only has “great memories” of working with Trent Alexander-Arnold as he prepares to return to Anfield with Real Madrid.
Alexander-Arnold was Slot’s vice-captain and played in Liverpool’s title-winning campaign under the Dutchman, although he dropped out of the team late in the season when it became clear that he would be leaving Anfield.
"I have great memories of the player and the human being. He was my vice-captain last season and I have memories of working with him which were only positive," Slot said
"How the fans [react] I have no clue how that's going to be but he gets a warm welcome from me, that's for sure."
Xabi Alonso believes Florian Wirtz will come good at Liverpool
Tuesday 4 November 2025 16:35 , Jamie BraidwoodXabi Alonso said Florian Wirtz will come good at Liverpool after struggling since his £100m move to Anfield. Alonso managed Wirtz at Bayer Leverkusen, when the Germany international was his star player in their Bundesliga triumph.
“I have no doubts. It is just a matter of time,” Alonso said. “It is a big change for him to come to Liverpool after so many years in Germany, he's been there all his life.
"He is a really special player. He has quality and personality and he's competitive. It has happened with great players in the Premier League before and I've no doubts with Flo.
"He is very special and probably one of the reasons I'm here now (at Real Madrid) so I'm very grateful to Flo. Hopefully not tomorrow, but I've no doubt he will show his quality and class."
Xabi Alonso hopes Trent Alexander-Arnold can enjoy Anfield return
Tuesday 4 November 2025 16:20 , Jamie BraidwoodXabi Alonso will also return to Anfield tonight, but will face a very different reception to Trent Alexander-Arnold despite both players swapping Liverpool for Real Madrid after making stellar contributions for the Reds.
"We haven't spoken about that precisely, but we have spoken about the team, the club," said head coach Alonso. "He has to have his own feelings and enjoy it his own way, so I am not going to say how he needs to feel.
"For sure his history is different from mine, he was born and bred in Liverpool, I remember him from a young age in the academy and then coming to the first team and winning the Champions League.
"So he needs to enjoy that moment because it is nice to be back and for him it is going to be nice."
Alexis Mac Allister's father addresses Real Madrid rumours
Tuesday 4 November 2025 16:05 , Jack RathbornAlexis Mac Allister’s father has dismissed rumours linking his son with a move to Real Madrid and underlined his loyalty to Liverpool.
“I read the rumors, but that's all they were,” Carlos Mac Allister told Spanish newspaper AS.
“There were no contacts. In any case, it's always nice to have my son linked with the biggest clubs in the world.
“Madrid is very big, but so is Liverpool, and we must be responsible and respect the institution he belongs to and that believed in him.”
What is the Real Madrid team news?
Tuesday 4 November 2025 15:50 , Jamie BraidwoodTrent Alexander-Arnold was an unused substitute in Real Madrid’s 4-0 win over Valencia on Saturday and is not guaranteed to start having only recently returned from a hamstring injury that interrupted his first few weeks at the club.
Real Madrid have injury problems elsewhere in defence, however, with Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba all currently sidelined.
What is the Liverpool team news?
Tuesday 4 November 2025 15:35 , Jamie BraidwoodRyan Gravenberch returned in the 2-0 win over Aston Villa but Alexander Isak is unavailable due to a groin injury that has disrupted his start to his Liverpool career. Alisson Becker remains out but Curtis Jones was back in training yesterday.
Arne Slot made several changes to his side on Saturday - with Hugo Ekitike the only new signing named in his starting side - and the Liverpool head coach could stick with that as he looks to build some consistency.
Is Liverpool v Real Madrid on TV? Channel, kick-off time and how to watch Champions League blockbuster
Tuesday 4 November 2025 15:20 , Jamie BraidwoodThe match will be shown on Amazon Prime Video, with coverage getting underway from 6:30pm. Existing Amazon Prime customers can stream the match online or through a connected TV. The match will kick off at 8pm GMT at Anfield.
One year on from moment of glory, much-changed Liverpool face the greatest test of all
Tuesday 4 November 2025 15:05 , Richard JollyLiverpool faced Real Madrid and Manchester City in a week and, at the end of it, it was reasonable to conclude they were the best team in the world at that point.
The statement requires the use of the past tense because it was a year ago, when Liverpool beat the reigning champions of Europe and England in a heady few days. No such claims could be made now. Not after victory over Aston Villa merely reduced their recent record to six defeats in eight.
It is a quirk of the fixture list that, in another autumn, Liverpool have the same doubleheader. Now, however, they are not top of either the Premier or the Champions League.
One year on from moment of glory, much-changed Liverpool face greatest test of all
Trent Alexander-Arnold: 'Ill always love Liverpool'
Tuesday 4 November 2025 14:50 , Jamie BraidwoodTrent Alexander-Arnold admitted he is not sure what reception he will receive at Anfield but said: “Whichever way I'm received is the decision of the fans. I'll always love the club, I'll always be a fan and be thankful for the opportunities and the things we achieved together. It will live with me forever. No matter what, my feelings won't change towards Liverpool.”
Trent Alexander-Arnold vows not to celebrate if he scores against Liverpool
Tuesday 4 November 2025 14:35 , Richard JollyTrent Alexander-Arnold scored 23 goals in his 354 games for Liverpool and is yet to open his account for Real Madrid but said: “If I was to score I wouldn't celebrate if I'm honest, no.”
The former Liverpool vice-captain was booed by some of the club’s fans at Anfield in April’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal after he announced he would leave in the summer, with the Premier League champions eventually receiving an £8.4m transfer fee.
Trent Alexander-Arnold reveals thoughts on Anfield reception ahead of Liverpool return
Tuesday 4 November 2025 14:20 , Richard JollyTrent Alexander-Arnold has vowed not to celebrate if he scores against Liverpool on his first return to Anfield since his summer sale.
Alexander-Arnold, who said he would always love Liverpool, admitted he never expected to be in the away dressing room at Anfield and said he would be careful he did not accidentally go into the home one with his former teammates.
“I'll be very focused on which way I go, I don't want any of those type of clips,” he told Prime Video Sport. “That will be a big difference, going into the away dressing room and warming up on the other side, everything will feel a lot different but it is all part of the game.”
Trent Alexander-Arnold leaves heartfelt tribute to Diogo Jota outside Anfield
Tuesday 4 November 2025 14:10 , Jamie BraidwoodTrent Alexander-Arnold paid tribute to former Liverpool team-mate Diogo Jota on his first return to Anfield with Real Madrid. The 27-year-old was part of a delegation from Real Madrid that laid a floral tribute to Jota and his brother Andre Silva outside Anfield on Monday night, before tonight’s Champions League match.
Accompanied by head coach and former Liverpool great Xabi Alonso and defender Dean Huijsen, Alexander-Arnold presented his own personal tribute with a hand-written note that read: “My mate Diogo, you are so missed but still so loved. Yours and Andre’s memories will always live on. I smile every time I think about you and will always remember the great times we shared. Miss you mate every day. Love Trent and family.”
Alexander-Arnold mural restored after graffiti
Tuesday 4 November 2025 14:05 , Jamie BraidwoodAlexander-Arnold’s decision to leave his boyhood club angered some Liverpool supporters, with the player booed during his first match against Arsenal following the announcement of his departure in May.
His mural, situated on Sybil Road adjacent to Anfield Road, was produced to recognise one of Liverpool’s academy successes, commemorating his role in the club’s 2019 Champions League victory.
The mural has since been restored after work to remove the graffiti on Tuesday afternoon.
Trent Alexander-Arnold mural vandalised ahead of Liverpool return for Real Madrid
Tuesday 4 November 2025 14:00 , Jamie BraidwoodTrent Alexander-Arnold’s mural near Anfield has been defaced with fans writing “rat” in English and Spanish ahead of his Liverpool return with Real Madrid on Tuesday night.
It is the first time Alexander-Arnold will play against his former team since his controversial exit, with fans using white paint over the image of the full-back.
“Rat not welcome” and “Adios el rata” were scribbled across the bottom of the mural with workers cleaning it at lunchtime.
The vandalism suggests a hostile reception for Alexander-Arnold tonight at Anfield as both teams clash in the Champions League.
