Atletico Madrid’s coach Diego Simeone was sent off after confronting the crowd following Liverpool’s late winning goal.
The current Premier League champions Liverpool began their Champions League campaign on Wednesday by hosting Atletico Madrid at Anfield.
Liverpool started strong in the first half, going 2-0 up within six minutes thanks to goals from Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah. However, Marcos Llorente pulled one back for Atletico just before halftime to make it 2-1.
In the second half, Salah hit the post, and then Llorente shocked the home crowd by equalizing at 2-2 in the 82nd minute.
In stoppage time, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk scored a header from a corner to secure a 3-2 victory.
Commenting on Van Dijk’s goal, Ally McCoist told TNT Sports: “Superb. Brilliant delivery. He had just half a yard and made the most of it with a brilliant header.”
As Liverpool celebrated, cameras caught Simeone exchanging words with the crowd. After being restrained by stewards and his staff, the referee showed the Argentine coach a red card.
Liverpool managed to hold on for an important win on the opening night of the Champions League. After the game, Van Dijk told TNT Sports: “We found a way again. Our set-pieces were dangerous. They played aggressively. I’m glad I scored the winner.” McCoist added: “Honestly, after those early minutes, we were wondering how many Liverpool would score. But Atletico fought back. Llorente was outstanding in the second half, bringing the score to 2-2.
“Then came the drama at the end with red cards for coaches, followed by a fantastic winning header. I really enjoyed the match.”
Arne Slot’s team will return to Premier League action this weekend when they face Everton at Anfield in the first Merseyside Derby of the 2025/26 season.
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