Liverpool opened their 2026/27 Champions League campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Atlético Madrid. It was far from perfect, but the character shown — especially after falling behind — offered early encouragement.
Here’s how the players rated.
Dominik Szoboszlai – 9
When Liverpool needed a spark, Szoboszlai delivered. The Hungarian was the standout performer, constantly progressive with his movement, sharp in duels, and creative on the ball. He created five chances, carried the ball effectively, and showed real composure to finish the equaliser from close range. A complete midfield display.
Alexis Mac Allister – 8.5
Mac Allister looked determined and sharp throughout. Strong on the ball, he won five duels and made four recoveries. His second-half performance was particularly impressive, culminating in a superbly struck winner. A big statement from the Argentine.
Alexander Isak – 7.5
No goal, but Isak still caused Atlético’s defence constant problems. His movement dragged centre-backs out of position, his link-up play was intelligent, and he claimed the assist for Mac Allister’s winner. A promising outing in a tough away environment.
Ronald Araujo – 7
Another solid shift at right-back. Araujo defended robustly, handled the opposition wingers well, and contributed going forward. His clever backheel flick played a key role in the equaliser. He is settling into the role impressively.
Alisson – 7
Quentin Jacquet – 7
Florian Wirtz – 7
Reliable from Alisson, composed from Jacquet, and energetic from Wirtz, who pressed tirelessly even if the final product wasn’t always there.
Virgil van Dijk – 6
Jeremie Frimpong – 5.5 (sub)
Andy Muñoz – 6 (sub)
Ryan Gravenberch – 6 (sub)
Bradley Barcola – 5
A first start for Liverpool, but Barcola looked hesitant in the final third. He tracked back diligently and put in a shift defensively, yet was wasteful with his chances — including a big second-half opportunity — before going off injured. Still early days.
Milos Kerkez – 5
Mixed. Kerkez made seven defensive contributions and won four tackles, but his failure to track Marcos Llorente for the opening goal was costly. Moments of promise undermined by a costly lapse in concentration.
Rio Ngumoha – 5
Kostas Tsimikas – N/R
Lewis Koumas – N/R
Overall
A gritty, imperfect, but ultimately successful start to the Champions League campaign. Szoboszlai and Mac Allister set the tone, Isak showed his quality without scoring, and the side showed the resilience that was sometimes missing last season. Plenty still to improve, but the foundation is there.
