LIVERPOOL, OCT 3 – Liverpool made the toughest fixture list in the new Champions League format look relatively easy.
The two Italian teams have now been beaten comfortably, with Bologna beaten 2-0 yesterday and AC Milan edged out 3-1 at the San Siro.
Two German opponents await ahead – including former Liverpool star Xabi Alonso returning to Anfield as Bayer Leverkusen coach – then two Spanish teams, including the visit of defending champions Real Madrid.
A brilliant home run in November could show new Liverpool manager Arne Slot how he is enjoying home games in the Champions League.
Mohamed Salah’s magical left foot assisted Alexis Mac Allister’s 11th-minute goal and also curled into the net in the 75th minute.
The Egypt star set a club record by scoring in his fifth consecutive home game in the European Cup or Champions League.
Playing in a league match between champions for the first time in almost 60 years, Bologna were still looking for the first goal with several dangerous attempts.
Bologna rattled the Liverpool goal twice and also forced Allison Becker into a key save under intense opposition pressure around the half-hour mark.
“Overall, a good result, but I wouldn’t use the word ‘happy’ myself today,” Slot said.
If they win against Leipzig on October 23, nine points will probably ensure Liverpool at least progress to the next knockout stage in the league. – AP
