Kylian Mbappe’s anticipated move to Real Madrid was expected to mark the beginning of his quest for a Champions League title. However, that dream feels distant following a 2-0 defeat to Liverpool on Wednesday, which puts the defending champions at risk of an early exit from the prestigious tournament.
The loss at Anfield was particularly challenging for Mbappe, who struggled against a young defender and missed a crucial penalty that could have equalized the match. After the game, Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged that the star forward is experiencing a “difficult moment” just months into his tenure with the 15-time European champions.
“We need to provide him with our support and love, and he will soon find his form,” Ancelotti stated, responding to numerous inquiries from Spanish reporters about Mbappe’s performance. “It could be a lack of confidence. Sometimes, when things aren’t going well, the best approach is to keep it simple and not complicate matters.”
Against a formidable Liverpool side currently leading both the Premier League and the Champions League, Mbappe appeared to be a shadow of his usual self. His night took a turn for the worse when he was brought down by a tough tackle from 21-year-old right back Conor Bradley while attempting to break through on goal, eliciting a loud cheer from the home crowd.
In the second half, Mbappe had a chance to level the score from the penalty spot after Alexis Mac Allister had given Liverpool the lead. However, his shot was saved by Liverpool’s backup goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher. Since joining Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent at the end of last season, Mbappe has scored nine goals in 18 appearances, but only one of those has come in the Champions League, where the team has lost three of its five matches in the revamped format.
“Things are not going his way right now. We must be patient; he is an extraordinary player,” Ancelotti emphasized.
As it stands, Madrid is currently 24th in the new 36-team league phase of the competition. The top eight teams will advance to the round of 16, while those ranked ninth to 24th will enter a playoff.
Mbappe was not the only player to miss a penalty during the match, as Mohamed Salah also failed to convert his spot kick. However, substitute Cody Gakpo managed to double Liverpool’s lead, securing a victory for new head coach Arne Slot, who achieved what his predecessor Jurgen Klopp could not: a win against Real Madrid in the Champions League. Klopp had previously faced Madrid six times, with five losses and one draw, including two defeats in the final.
With this victory, Liverpool maintained its perfect record in the Champions League this season and sits atop the standings after five matches. Each team will play a total of eight games in the opening phase. Looking ahead, Madrid will face Atalanta next month, while Liverpool will take on Girona.
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