Liverpool secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory against RB Leipzig in the Champions League, with Darwin Nunez scoring the decisive goal in a match where the hosts dominated much of the play but failed to convert their chances.
Leipzig began the game on the front foot, launching wave after wave of attacks. However, it was Liverpool who found the breakthrough against the run of play. Mohamed Salah, often criticized this season for a lack of goals, provided a pinpoint header across the box, allowing Nunez to tap in from close range. The Uruguayan’s poacher’s finish put Liverpool ahead midway through the first half.
Leipzig responded with urgency, with Xavi Simons and Lois Openda orchestrating some threatening attacks. Yet, despite their best efforts, they couldn’t get past a resilient Liverpool defense. Peter Gulacsi was outstanding for Leipzig, making several crucial saves, including a close-range header from Nunez that he tipped over the bar and another from Virgil van Dijk following a Tsimikas corner.
In the second half, Leipzig ramped up the pressure. Openda thought he had leveled the score, but his goal was ruled out for offside. Xavi Simons was also denied by Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher, who stood tall at his near post. Leipzig’s attack continued to look promising, but Liverpool’s defense, marshaled by Van Dijk, held firm to preserve their narrow lead.
Despite the German side’s dominance in possession and chances, the Reds were able to withstand the pressure and walk away with all three points. Leipzig will feel frustrated, as their first Champions League points continue to elude them, while Liverpool celebrated a gritty performance and Nunez’s crucial strike.
Liverpool’s win sees them continue their strong start to the campaign, while Leipzig will rue their missed opportunities in a game that felt like it deserved more than just one goal.
