Liverpool, Sep 18 (NationPress) - In a thrilling Champions League group-stage opener on Wednesday night at Anfield, captain Virgil van Dijk delivered a stunning header in stoppage time to secure a dramatic 3-2 win against Atletico Madrid. The Dutch defender rose above the crowd to connect with a corner in the 92nd minute, clinching the victory as the match appeared to be heading for a draw following Marcos Llorente’s two goals that leveled the score.

Shortly after the tension peaked, Atletico’s manager Diego Simeone was issued a red card due to an altercation with fans, adding to the drama of the encounter.

Liverpool started the match explosively, netting twice within the first six minutes. Andy Robertson opened the scoring in the fourth minute, converting a free-kick from Mohamed Salah that took an unexpected bounce past an unprepared Jan Oblak. Just moments later, Salah doubled the advantage, skillfully maneuvering past three Atletico defenders before slotting the ball into the far corner.

Atletico fought back, with Llorente finding the net just before the half-time whistle, bringing them closer with a precise finish. He equalized in the 81st minute with a powerful volley that deflected into the net, reminiscent of his standout performance at Anfield in 2020.

“Marcos enjoys playing here; he delivered an outstanding performance,” Simeone remarked post-match. “We’re maintaining our morale. Losing is part of the game, and it happened today.”

Yet again, Liverpool demonstrated their characteristic resilience. Having already claimed four Premier League victories this season with late goals, Van Dijk’s decisive strike continued that trend.

“We kept pushing,” stated Van Dijk. “We found a way once more. I’m pleased to have scored the winner. It’s essential to keep going and showcase the resilience we’ve been known for. It was another fantastic European evening here, and today I was the fortunate one to score the winning goal.”

While delighted with the victory, Robertson urged the team to regain their efficiency. “It’s commendable to fight until the end, but when you’re 2-0 up and performing well, it should have been a more comfortable night,” he expressed.

This match also marked the debut of British record signing Alexander Isak, who joined from Newcastle United for £125 million on deadline day. The Swedish striker played for 58 minutes, missing one opportunity late in the first half and sending another shot directly at Oblak.

Liverpool dominated the statistics, attempting 20 shots compared to Atletico’s 10, although Salah hit the post with a close-range chance that could have been costly. Nevertheless, Arne Slot’s team continued their streak of dramatic victories, aiming to build on last season’s strong league-phase performance that concluded with a last-16 defeat to eventual winners Paris Saint-Germain.