Liverpool continued their impeccable Champions League campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Girona, making it six wins out of six in the group stage. Mohamed Salah’s penalty ensured the result, while Alisson Becker’s impressive return to the starting lineup helped preserve another clean sheet. The Brazilian goalkeeper’s five saves were crucial in keeping the hosts at bay, extending Liverpool’s defensive streak to five matches without conceding a goal.
Despite the win, manager Arne Slot was critical of his team’s performance, pointing out a lack of intensity and control throughout the game. While Slot acknowledged his satisfaction with the overall results and previous performances, he was less pleased with what he saw against Girona. “I’m really happy with the results, but tonight’s performance was far from good enough,” he said.
The decisive moment came in the 60th minute when Luis Díaz was fouled in the penalty area by Donny van de Beek. The incident initially went unnoticed, but a VAR review revealed Díaz’s boot had been dislodged during the challenge. The referee awarded the penalty, which Salah confidently converted for his 16th goal of the season. Although Girona’s coach expressed frustration with the decision, acknowledging the realities of VAR in modern football, Liverpool took full advantage of the opportunity.
The match began with Girona showcasing their attacking intent early on. Despite Liverpool dominating possession, it was the hosts who forced Alisson into action multiple times during the first half. Bryan Gil’s clever movement and Miguel Gutiérrez’s delivery created dangerous moments, including a side-footed effort from Ladislav Krejci that was denied by Alisson. Shortly afterward, Gil slipped inside the box but managed to scramble a shot, only for Alisson to save again. These early exchanges served as a reminder that Girona would not go down without a fight.
Liverpool had their chances in the first half as well. Joe Gomez’s header was turned away by Girona goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga, and Darwin Núñez narrowly missed the target with another headed effort. However, the visitors struggled to create clear-cut opportunities, often seeing their attacks fizzle out against Girona’s disciplined defense.
The second half began with Liverpool increasing the tempo. Girona found themselves pushed deeper into their own territory, yet they continued to defend resolutely. Liverpool’s attempts to break through were often thwarted, with their passes and low crosses being cleared by Girona’s defenders. Andy Robertson had one of Liverpool’s better chances, forcing a save from Gazzaniga, but it wasn’t until the hour mark that the breakthrough arrived.
Díaz’s tumble in the penalty area seemed inconsequential at first, but a VAR review revealed enough contact to warrant a penalty. The Colombian’s boot being dislodged during the challenge provided crucial evidence for the referee. Salah stepped up to convert the spot-kick, maintaining his composure to secure the lead.
Girona attempted to respond but struggled to regain the momentum they had in the first half. Alisson continued to play a pivotal role, making a key save from Arnaut Danjuma early in the second half. While Girona’s attacks diminished, Liverpool focused on controlling possession and seeing out the game.
The result ensured Liverpool’s progression to the knockout stages with two games to spare. Their defensive record has been a cornerstone of this success, with no goals conceded since the third minute of their opening match. Alisson’s return has only bolstered an already robust backline, giving the team additional confidence heading into the latter stages of the competition.
Girona, meanwhile, face an uphill battle, with just three points from six games in their maiden Champions League campaign. Despite their struggles, they showed flashes of promise, creating enough chances to trouble Liverpool at times. However, a lack of cutting edge and some unfortunate moments, like the penalty decision, have left them unable to capitalize on their efforts.
While Slot’s dissatisfaction with the performance highlights Liverpool’s high standards, the result ultimately reflects their ability to secure victories even when not at their best. With their group stage campaign wrapped up in perfect fashion, Liverpool can now focus on maintaining their form as they prepare for the challenges of the knockout rounds.
