Liverpool open Champions League with Atletico win

Liverpool have started their Champions League league-phase campaign with three points after recovering from an early deficit to beat Atletico Madrid 2-1 at Anfield. The result also extended Liverpool’s recent dominance in this fixture to four consecutive Champions League victories over the Spanish side.

Atletico took the lead in the 17th minute when Marcos Llorente finished after receiving the ball from Julian Alvarez. Liverpool levelled shortly before half-time, with Dominik Szoboszlai scoring in the 40th minute to send the teams into the interval on equal terms.

The hosts completed the turnaround five minutes after the restart. Alexis Mac Allister struck from outside the penalty area in the 50th minute, beating Jan Oblak and putting Liverpool in front. Atletico pressed for an equaliser, but Alisson and Liverpool’s defence preserved the advantage. Jeremy Frimpong appeared to add a third late on, though the goal was ruled out for offside.

Liverpool will seek to build on their winning start away to Austrian club LASK Linz in the next round. Atletico, who leave the opening matchday without a point, will host Manchester United.