Mac Allister Seals Liverpool Comeback Over Atletico

Alexis Mac Allister fired Liverpool to a 2-1 comeback win over Atletico Madrid as their 2026-27 Champions League league-phase campaign opened with three points at Anfield.

The midfielder struck the decisive goal in the second half, driving a 20-yard finish inside the post after Rio Ngumoha’s intelligent run into the channel created the opening.

Liverpool had fallen behind in the 17th minute when Marcos Llorente scored for Atletico. Dominik Szoboszlai brought the hosts level before the interval, setting up Mac Allister’s match-winning intervention.

Quick facts

Liverpool beat Atletico Madrid 2-1 at Anfield.
Marcos Llorente put Atletico ahead after 17 minutes.
Dominik Szoboszlai equalised for Liverpool.
Alexis Mac Allister scored the second-half winner from 20 yards.
Andoni Iraola began his European campaign as Liverpool manager with a victory.
Liverpool’s next Champions League match is away to LASK next month.

Mac Allister said Liverpool’s response to conceding early showed the mentality required for major European nights. He pointed to the timing of the goals around half-time and the role played by the home support.

“I liked the mentality,” he said. “We showed desire, we got the fans behind us and that’s really important when you play at Anfield. That’s what we want and I think it’s a really positive step for us.”

The 27-year-old said he was confident as soon as the ball fell for him outside the area. While pleased with the finish, he stressed that the goal mattered because it secured the result for the team.

“It was a good hit,” Mac Allister said. “Normally when I’m in those positions I like to shoot. I’m happy because I love to score goals. Today, it was a nice goal and was important for the team.”

Liverpool recovered from their early defensive mistake by taking control through possession and pressing, with Atletico unable to protect their lead.

What happens next: Iraola’s side head to Austria next month to face LASK in their second league-phase fixture. Mac Allister believes Liverpool have the squad strength and hunger to challenge for silverware, but said the group must remain united under the club’s high expectations.

“We have an amazing team,” he said. “We have quality, we have desire and we have everything to be successful. We will try, we will work hard and hopefully we can get some trophies.”