Liverpool Outclass Lille to Seal Champions League Knockout Spot | OneFootball

Liverpool Cruise Past Lille to Secure Champions League Last-16 Spot

Mohamed Salah reached another milestone, scoring his 50th European goal for Liverpool as the Reds secured their place in the Champions League’s last 16 with a commanding performance over Lille at Anfield. The Egyptian’s first-half strike was pivotal, and Arne Slot’s side continued their unbeaten streak in this season’s competition.

Salah’s Decisive Impact

Salah’s breakthrough came in the 34th minute, capitalising on a sublime through ball from Curtis Jones. The forward displayed his trademark composure, deftly lifting the ball over Lille’s advancing goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier. It was a goal of the highest quality, demonstrating the synergy and precision that Liverpool’s attack has often delivered on Europe’s grandest stage.

Before the opener, Lille’s impressive 21-match unbeaten run in all competitions had been evident in their discipline and organisation. However, Salah’s goal shifted the momentum firmly in Liverpool’s favour. The forward could have added to his tally, narrowly missing a second-half opportunity when his curling effort skimmed past the far post.

Lille’s Response and Controversy

Despite being reduced to 10 men late in the first half, Lille showed resilience. Aïssa Mandi received a second yellow card for a clumsy trip on Luis Díaz, leaving the visitors in a precarious position. His first booking stemmed from dissent over an alleged foul on Jonathan David during the build-up to Liverpool’s goal.

Surprisingly, Lille struck back moments later. Jonathan David, ever the opportunist, found the net after Håkon Haraldsson’s blocked shot fell kindly for him. It was a moment that briefly silenced the Anfield crowd and emphasised Lille’s ability to fight against adversity.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s Response and Control

The equaliser was a mere hiccup for Liverpool. Arne Slot’s team reclaimed the lead swiftly, courtesy of Harvey Elliott. A cleared corner fell to the young midfielder, whose deflected strike nestled into the bottom corner, restoring the Reds’ advantage and easing any lingering nerves.

Darwin Núñez, fresh from his late heroics against Brentford, had a chance to extend Liverpool’s lead. However, his goal was ruled out for offside after Federico Chiesa’s initial effort was parried away. Despite this, Liverpool’s dominance in the game was never in doubt.

Unbeaten and Poised for the Knockouts

With this victory, Liverpool maintained their 100% record in the revamped Champions League league phase, a testament to their consistency and depth under Slot’s guidance. Their seven wins from seven matches ensure they will be seeded for the last-16 draw in March, where they await one of eight teams progressing from February’s play-offs.

The night at Anfield reaffirmed Liverpool’s European pedigree. Salah’s milestone and the team’s collective performance highlight their readiness for the challenges ahead.