Dave Hendrick: How Liverpool Dismantled Real Madrid | OneFootball

Liverpool Triumph Over Real Madrid in Champions League Classic

Liverpool fans were left in raptures after a stunning 2-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League, continuing the Reds’ imperious run of form this season. In the latest episode of The Daily Red Podcast, Dave Hendrick passionately analysed Liverpool’s dominant display, praising the team’s resilience and key individual performances.

Relentless Reds Outshine the “Biggest Club”

Reflecting on the victory, Hendrick marvelled at Liverpool’s ability to neutralise Real Madrid, calling it “a great night to be Red.” He emphasised the significance of overcoming a club as storied as Real Madrid: “They’re the biggest club, but when teams like that come to Anfield and get humbled, it’s always really nice.”

While critics cited Real Madrid’s injury woes, Hendrick was quick to remind listeners that Liverpool were also missing key players, including Alisson Becker and Trent Alexander-Arnold, both of whom he described as “world XI players.”

Electric Start and Tactical Brilliance

Liverpool’s attacking intent was evident from the opening moments. Hendrick highlighted the early interplay between Mohamed Salah and Darwin Núñez, remarking: “Three minutes in, Mo nicks the ball off Mbappé, feeds Darwin, and the tone was set for a night of pace and aggression.”

Connor Bradley’s fearless tackling and Virgil van Dijk’s physicality were also pivotal. Hendrick described Bradley’s crunching challenge on Kylian Mbappé as a moment that ignited the Anfield crowd: “The atmosphere lifted to rare levels. It was probably the best sliding tackle we’ve seen since Fabinho left Suárez in a heap.”

Alexis Mac Allister Shines Bright

One of the standout performers was Alexis Mac Allister, whose creativity and composure were instrumental. Hendrick praised the Argentine’s opening goal: “A fantastic finish by Alexis – one touch and a lovely little slid finish across the goalkeeper. It was just a fantastic goal.”

Mac Allister’s partnership with Curtis Jones, who “drove at Real Madrid over and over again,” underscored Liverpool’s midfield dynamism.

Defensive Solidity and Redemption for Robertson

Despite occasional lapses, Liverpool’s defence held firm. Hendrick was critical of Andy Robertson’s penalty concession, labelling it “a lazy, tired tackle,” but he also lauded Robertson’s stunning assist for Cody Gakpo’s goal: “It was a gorgeous cross – absolutely brilliant. Gakpo’s header was well worthy of a game like that.”

Goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher also received special mention for his penalty save from Mbappé, a key moment that maintained Liverpool’s momentum. “Kelleher makes a great save, and this time, there’s no bad luck. He pushes it out wide, and Diaz clears.”

A Season of Historic Proportions?

Hendrick concluded the podcast by framing Liverpool’s performance within the broader context of their extraordinary season. He dismissed criticisms from rival fans and declared: “We’re performing at a historically great level. There’s nothing to suggest this isn’t sustainable.”

The Reds’ Champions League record—five wins from five, with just one goal conceded—places them as the competition’s form team. Hendrick added: “When you consider we had the hardest draw, that’s a hell of an achievement.”

Looking Ahead

With Trent Alexander-Arnold set to return, Liverpool’s squad depth appears well-equipped to navigate upcoming challenges. However, Hendrick noted the significance of key injuries, particularly Ibrahima Konaté’s knock, describing it as a situation “we’ll have to monitor closely.”

The victory not only secured Liverpool’s top spot in their group but also sent a clear message to Europe’s elite. As Hendrick summarised: “This Liverpool team is very, very real.”