Liverpool’s relentless second-half display handed Bayer Leverkusen a humbling 4-0 defeat at Anfield, with Luis Díaz shining brightest on an unforgettable night for the Reds.
After a subdued and tightly-contested first half, Díaz’s opener in the 61st minute unleashed a tidal wave of Liverpool pressure that Leverkusen, under returning club legend Xabi Alonso, couldn’t withstand.
The match began with Leverkusen controlling the tempo and frustrating Liverpool, as Alonso’s side played a cautious, disciplined game. The first half ended goalless, with Liverpool’s attack held largely at bay and the home crowd unusually quiet for a Champions League night. Leverkusen’s steady approach hinted at a possible upset, as they managed to keep Liverpool from creating clear chances.
However, the game took a drastic turn after the break. Just past the hour mark, Curtis Jones’ smart through-ball found Díaz, who lofted it deftly over Leverkusen’s keeper, Lukas Hradecky, to open the scoring and swing the momentum Liverpool’s way.
Barely two minutes later, Cody Gakpo capitalised on a Salah cross, slotting home to double the lead after a VAR review overturned an offside decision.
With Liverpool in full control, Luis Díaz struck again in the 83rd minute, tapping in from close range as Salah provided yet another assist. The Colombian forward wasn’t done, completing his hat-trick in stoppage time by smashing home a rebound after a blocked Darwin Núñez attempt.
Liverpool's defence, meanwhile, was rock-solid, with Caoimhin Kelleher stepping up when needed to neutralise Leverkusen’s few chances. The 4-0 scoreline reflected Liverpool's dominant attack and solid defence, ensuring a clean sheet despite Leverkusen’s efforts in the first half.
The victory keeps Liverpool at the top of their Champions League standings with 12 points, as Arne Slot's side look more impressive with every game. For Alonso, it was a sobering return to Anfield – a night that began with hope but ended with a stark reminder of the challenge his team faced.
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