Liverpool revived their UEFA Champions League (UCL) hopes with a dramatic 1-0 win over Inter Milan at the San Siro, thanks to an 88th-minute penalty from Dominik Szoboszlai. It was the Reds’ second victory in seven matches – a much-needed boost for a side battling inconsistency and off-pitch noise.
Match Overview – Liverpool Leave It Late in Milan
Liverpool arrived in Italy under immense pressure and without star forward Mohamed Salah, who was excluded from the squad after his post-match comments following the 3-3 draw with Leeds. Despite the controversies, the visitors showed strong character and discipline, silencing the San Siro crowd.
Inter Milan, sitting fifth in the UCL standings before kick-off, were confident at home but failed to convert key moments. The defeat now pushes them down in the table and hands Liverpool a valuable lifeline in what is becoming a tight league-phase battle.
First Half – Early Chances and VAR Drama
Liverpool started brightly, trying to play fast, purposeful football. Curtis Jones almost put the Reds ahead early but was denied by Yann Sommer’s sharp save.
The most significant talking point of the first half came in the 32nd minute when Ibrahima Konaté headed the ball into the net after Virgil van Dijk’s knockdown. Celebrations were short-lived. VAR intervened and ruled the goal out due to a handball from Hugo Ekitike – a decision that frustrated Liverpool players and fans alike.
Inter responded strongly. Lautaro Martínez rose highest to test Alisson with a powerful header, reminding Liverpool of his threat inside the box. But despite the pressure, the half ended goalless.
Second Half – Few Chances, High Tension
The second period saw both teams tighten defensively. Attacks were limited, and midfield battles dominated the game.
Hugo Ekitike attempted a long-range strike, but Alisson comfortably collected it—the best chance of the second half before the penalty fell to Conor Bradley in the 80th minute. The young full-back found space in the box but shot straight at Sommer.
Just as the match seemed destined for a stalemate, Liverpool received a golden opportunity.
88th Minute Breakthrough – Szoboszlai Delivers Under Pressure
Florian Wirtz felt a slight tug from Alessandro Bastoni inside the penalty area. Though soft, VAR upheld the referee’s decision to award a penalty – a moment that sent both benches into debate.
Dominik Szoboszlai stepped up with icy composure, smashing the ball beyond Sommer’s reach. The stadium fell silent as Liverpool celebrated a crucial late goal.
The 1-0 win pushes Liverpool into eighth place, level on points with Inter. For Inter Milan, the defeat marks their second straight UCL loss, leaving their qualification hopes under threat.
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