Reds secure Champions League last-16 spot while ending Lille’s 21-match unbeaten run
Mohamed Salah scored his 50th European goal for Liverpool on a historic night at Anfield, helping the Reds clinch a 2-1 win over 10-man Lille and secure qualification to the UEFA Champions League last 16. The victory also marked Liverpool’s seventh consecutive triumph in the competition this season, matching a club record.
Salah opened the scoring in the 34th minute with a clinical finish, taking his tally to 22 goals this season. The Egyptian’s landmark goal puts him ahead of Liverpool legends like Ian Rush and Kenny Dalglish in European competitions.
Lille’s hopes took a hit when Aïssa Mandi received a second yellow card in the second half, reducing the visitors to 10 men. However, they leveled the match through Jonathan David, whose goal ended Liverpool’s record-setting defensive streak in Europe of 572 minutes without conceding.
The deadlock was broken 23 minutes from time when substitute Harvey Elliott’s deflected strike secured all three points for Liverpool. Elliott’s goal was a testament to the Reds’ squad depth, with Salah praising the young midfielder post-match: “He’s a great lad who always gives his best, whether it’s five minutes or 45 minutes. Today, he was fantastic.”
Salah Reflects on Milestone and Lille’s Challenge
Speaking after the match, Salah expressed pride in his 50-goal achievement but emphasized the team’s success. “It’s something I’m very happy and proud about, especially because we won the game, and that’s the most important thing,” he said.
The forward also acknowledged Lille’s resilience: “They had a good game plan. They were unbeaten in 21 games, so they’re a tough team. I’m glad we managed to win.”
Lille’s Jonathan David Praises Liverpool
Despite the loss, Lille forward Jonathan David commended Liverpool’s quality, calling them “one of the best teams in the world.” Reflecting on the game, he said: “It was a difficult match, especially after going down to 10 men. We managed to equalize, but today just wasn’t our day.”
What’s Next?
Liverpool’s win guarantees their place in the Champions League knockout stages, though they will need at least a point against PSV Eindhoven next week to secure the top spot in the group. Meanwhile, Lille, now in 11th place, must win their final group-stage match against Feyenoord to keep their hopes of a top-eight finish alive.
Before those European clashes, Liverpool will host Ipswich in the Premier League, while Lille will travel to Strasbourg in Ligue 1.
Records and Milestones
- Salah’s 50th European goal surpasses the combined tallies of Ian Rush, Fernando Torres, Kenny Dalglish, and Daniel Sturridge.
- Liverpool’s seventh consecutive Champions League win matches their best run, achieved in the 2021-22 season.
- The Reds set a new club record for minutes without conceding a goal in Europe, previously held at 572 minutes during the 2005-06 campaign.
With their flawless Champions League run intact, Liverpool look poised to challenge for the title, while Lille faces an uphill battle to stay in the competition.
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