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Introduction
Liverpool continued their impressive Champions League campaign with a thrilling 2-1 victory over 10-man Lille at Anfield on Tuesday night. Goals from Mohamed Salah and Harvey Elliott ensured the Reds progressed to the last 16, despite a valiant effort from the French side, who briefly equalized through Jonathan David after Aissa Mandi’s dismissal. Here’s how the action unfolded.
Line-Up Changes and Tactical Adjustments by Arne Slot
Liverpool manager Arne Slot made four changes to the starting XI for this crucial Group Stage match. Darwin Nunez led the line, while Conor Bradley and Jarell Quansah added fresh energy to the defense. Curtis Jones was handed a start in midfield, offering creativity and link-up play alongside Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch.
Starting XI
Liverpool: Alisson, Van Dijk, Diaz (Chiesa, 74), Szoboszlai (Endo, 63), Nunez, Salah, Jones (Elliott, 46), Tsimikas, Gravenberch (Mac Allister, 46), Quansah, Bradley (Alexander-Arnold, 86).
Unused Subs: Kelleher, Jaros, Konate, Gakpo, Robertson, Danns, Morton.
The team’s tactical setup emphasized possession, pressing, and exploiting Lille’s defensive gaps with swift counter-attacks.
First Half: Salah Strikes as Liverpool Dictate Play
Lille started with intent, with Gabriel Gudmundsson testing Liverpool’s defense in the opening minute, driving a shot wide of Alisson’s post. However, Liverpool quickly found their rhythm, dominating possession and nullifying Lille’s attacking threat.

Early Liverpool Pressure
Liverpool’s attacking efforts were initially frustrated by Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier, who held a shot from Salah midway through the first half. Luis Diaz provided a spark on the left flank, flashing a dangerous cross into the box, but Salah was unable to connect.
Salah Breaks the Deadlock
The breakthrough came in the 34th minute. Curtis Jones, deep in Liverpool’s half, delivered a perfectly weighted pass that split the Lille defense. Salah raced onto the ball, showed incredible composure, and curled his shot past Chevalier, who had charged to the edge of his area.
Liverpool could have doubled their lead before halftime. Dominik Szoboszlai unleashed a powerful effort from distance that flew wide, and Salah narrowly missed the target after creating space inside the box.
Second Half: Drama Unfolds at Anfield
The second half saw Liverpool continue their dominance, but Lille remained determined to make a contest of it.
Mandi’s Red Card and Lille’s Equalizer
The game turned chaotic just before the hour mark. Aissa Mandi received a second yellow card for tripping Diaz as he surged forward, leaving Lille to play with 10 men. Despite their numerical disadvantage, Lille found an equalizer within three minutes. Jonathan David pounced on a loose ball in the box, calmly slotting past Alisson after Hakon Arnar Haraldsson’s initial effort was blocked.
Elliott Restores the Lead
Liverpool responded swiftly. Substitute Harvey Elliott made an instant impact, scoring in the 68th minute. A deflected shot from the edge of the box, following a corner ball, left Chevalier helpless as it sailed into the net. Elliott’s strike not only restored Liverpool’s lead but also lifted the crowd at Anfield.

Late Chances and Near Misses
Liverpool pushed for a third goal in the closing stages. Salah saw another effort blocked from a tight angle, and substitute Federico Chiesa tested Chevalier with a curling shot that forced an acrobatic save. In the dying moments, Nunez thought he had added a goal, only for his follow-up to be ruled out for offside. Despite the narrow scoreline, Liverpool’s game management ensured there were no further scares.
Match Statistics
- Attendance: 59,782
- Possession: Liverpool 68%, Lille 32%
- Shots on Target: Liverpool 7, Lille 3
- Corners: Liverpool 9, Lille 2
Key Performers
Mohamed Salah – The Game Changer
Salah’s first-half goal showcased his clinical finishing and ability to thrive in high-pressure moments. He was a constant threat to Lille’s defense, creating chances and testing Chevalier multiple times.
Harvey Elliott – Super Sub
Elliott’s introduction at halftime proved decisive. His energy and creativity added a new dimension to Liverpool’s attack, and his deflected goal sealed the win.
Jarell Quansah – Composed at the Back
Making a rare start, Quansah delivered an assured performance in defense. He nearly scored from a set-piece and played a vital role in neutralizing Lille’s counter-attacks.
Manager’s Thoughts: Arne Slot Praises Team Spirit
Speaking after the game, Arne Slot highlighted the importance of resilience and adaptability.
“It was a tough match, especially after conceding the equalizer. The team showed great character to bounce back, and I’m proud of the way we managed the game. Progressing to the last 16 is a testament to the hard work of the players.”
What’s Next for Liverpool?
With their place in the Champions League last 16 secured, Liverpool can now focus on maintaining their momentum in the Premier League. Arne Slot’s men have shown their capability to handle high-pressure games, and this victory will undoubtedly boost their confidence moving forward.

Conclusion
Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Lille was a testament to their quality, determination, and tactical discipline. Salah’s brilliance and Elliott’s impact highlighted the depth and versatility of this squad under Arne Slot’s guidance. As Anfield celebrated another famous European night, Liverpool fans can look forward to the knockout stages with optimism, knowing their team has what it takes to challenge Europe’s best.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com