Liverpool beat Real Madrid, Szoboszlai is the leader

Liverpool beat Real Madrid in the European Cup thanks to Alexis Mac Allister's header from Dominik Szoboszlai's pinpoint cross. On a stage that demands solidity and discipline, the Hungarian midfielder became a true leader, dictating the tempo and enhancing the entire tactical structure of coach Arne Slot.

Decisive moment: Szoboszlai's cross, Mac Allister's header

The first half saw Liverpool play dead ball with purpose. Szoboszlai's crosses from free kicks constantly put Real Madrid's defence on alert. The climax came when he played the perfect ball for Alexis Mac Allister to head in the only goal of the match.

Before that, Szoboszlai himself also launched the most dangerous shot in the first half, showing his influence in both creating opportunities and directly threatening Thibaut Courtois' goal.

Lighthouse in the Arne Slot system

Slot needed a mobile and accurate number 8 to keep the team structured, and Szoboszlai embodied that perfectly. He acted as a “lighthouse”, guiding the team in both defense and transition.

No ball: set discipline standards, keep clean sheets

Szoboszlai's diligence and unwavering energy set the standard for pressing and covering. Many dangerous Real Madrid counter-attacks were broken up by him at the right time, helping Liverpool maintain a compact formation and keep a clean sheet against a superb attack.

This was a determined and organised Liverpool side, reflecting a spirit of collective sacrifice that fans have rarely seen since a half-billion pound squad overhaul.

With the ball: tempo, transition and dead ball

In possession, Szoboszlai is the bridge that allows Liverpool to accelerate when needed and slow down when in control. His intelligent runs open up counter-attacks, while his crosses from set pieces repeatedly penetrate the space of the opposition – the foundation for goals.

Domino effect: teammates are released

Szoboszlai’s influence also lies in the way he helps his teammates get the most out of their strengths. His central presence allows Florian Wirtz to play higher up the pitch, operating in his preferred space on the left, rather than having to drop deep to help build up play – thereby increasing creativity in the final third.

At the back, Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch found their rhythm again. Gravenberch was particularly outstanding in his ability to intercept and then carry the ball forward, turning the first pressing line from midfield into a shield that significantly relieved the back four. Conor Bradley therefore had a solid game when facing Vinicius Junior head-to-head.

Real Madrid connection broken

Xabi Alonso's Real Madrid were overly cautious, trying to slow the pace of the game down but wasting time in possession. The trio of Jude Bellingham, Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe had their moments of brilliance, but lacked the necessary support from the backline to put constant pressure on Liverpool's goal.

Meaning to race and identity

This is the image the reigning Premier League champions will be looking to project as they defend their title: a well-oiled Liverpool side with key upgrades in midfield. The midfield trio – Szoboszlai’s energy, Mac Allister’s precision and Gravenberch’s control – are a formidable weapon against any opponent.

This match reinforced one thing: Dominik Szoboszlai is the heart and engine of the new era under Arne Slot.

Selected highlights

• Only goal: Alexis Mac Allister headed from Dominik Szoboszlai's cross.
• Szoboszlai had the most dangerous shot in the first half; set pieces constantly put Real Madrid's defense on alert.
• Liverpool kept a clean sheet against an attack consisting of Jude Bellingham, Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe.
• Ryan Gravenberch stood out with his interceptions and ability to carry the ball forward; Conor Bradley stood firm against Vinicius Junior.

CTVX