Liverpool continued their unbeaten streak in this season’s Champions League with a 2-1 victory over Lille at Anfield, sealing their place in the competition’s last 16.
Mohamed Salah opened the scoring in the 34th minute, netting his 50th European goal for the Reds. The Egyptian forward latched onto a sublime through ball from Curtis Jones and chipped past Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier to give Liverpool the lead.
Despite Lille’s impressive 21-match unbeaten run across all competitions, their resilience was tested further when Aïssa Mandi received a second yellow card for tripping Luis Díaz in the 59th minute, leaving the visitors to finish the game with 10 men.
Lille found a brief glimmer of hope just three minutes later as Jonathan David pounced on a rebound from Hákon Haraldsson’s blocked shot to equalize. However, Liverpool regained the advantage swiftly when Harvey Elliott’s deflected strike found the bottom corner following a cleared corner in the 67th minute.
Darwin Núñez had a late effort disallowed for offside after Federico Chiesa’s shot was saved, but the Reds held on comfortably to secure their seventh consecutive victory in the league phase.
The win ensures Liverpool’s place in the seeded pot for the last 16 draw, set to take place in March. Manager Arne Slot will now focus on the team’s upcoming busy schedule, which includes critical matches in the Premier League, FA Cup, and the EFL Cup semi-final second leg against Tottenham.
Professional Display from Liverpool
Liverpool’s performance may not have been their most scintillating, but it was efficient. Slot’s men overcame a strong Lille press early in the game before finding their rhythm. Salah’s opener, expertly set up by Jones, showcased the attacking precision that has been a hallmark of Liverpool’s European campaign this season.
Though Lille managed to equalize against the run of play, Liverpool’s persistence and quality proved decisive. Elliott’s goal, albeit aided by a deflection, underscored the team’s ability to capitalize on set-piece opportunities.
What’s Next?
Liverpool will face PSV in their final group game on January 29, needing just a point to secure top spot in their group. Lille, meanwhile, remain in contention for an automatic last-16 spot but will require a strong finish to their campaign to climb into the top eight.
As the competition heats up, Liverpool fans will be optimistic about their team’s chances of adding another European triumph to their storied history.
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