Liverpool bounced back in style from their shock Premier League defeat to Nottingham Forest by securing a 3-1 victory over AC Milan in their Champions League opener.
Arne Slot’s side, coming off a frustrating 1-0 loss at Anfield, quickly turned the page in Milan after initially going behind in the opening minutes.
Despite the early setback, Liverpool showed their resilience, coming from behind with goals from Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, and Dominik Szoboszlai.
While Christian Pulisic’s early goal for AC Milan caused concern among Liverpool fans, the Reds responded brilliantly, taking control of the game before half-time.
Konate and van Dijk’s headers flipped the script, and Szoboszlai’s strike in the second half sealed the win.
However, it wasn’t just Liverpool’s defence and midfield that made the difference — Mohamed Salah, though unlucky not to get on the scoresheet, was a constant threat throughout the match.
Fonseca admits Salah was hard to contain
After the match, AC Milan manager Paulo Fonseca praised Salah’s performance, admitting that his side struggled to keep the Egyptian forward under control.
Paulo Fonseca. Credit: Imago Images
Salah, who hit the woodwork twice, tormented the Milan defence with his movement and ability to create chances. Fonseca acknowledged that Salah’s individual brilliance was a significant factor in Milan’s struggles.
“We still make too many mistakes,” Fonseca said in quotes reported by Redmen TV on YouTube.
“In the one-against-one, in the individual game, and in other phases, we have had a very bad time. Especially trying to tackle Salah, trying to limit his movements. Salah and other players are the most difficult players to (stop).”
Despite not scoring or assisting, Salah’s presence was undeniable, continuously keeping Milan’s defence on edge.
His ability to take on defenders one-on-one and create space for his teammates highlighted why he remains one of the Premier League’s most dangerous attackers.
Salah’s influence remains key to Liverpool’s success
Salah’s impact, even on nights when he doesn’t get on the scoresheet, remains pivotal to Liverpool’s fortunes.
Mohamed Salah. Credit: Imago Images
His performance against Milan underscores his importance to the team, not just for his goals and assists but for his ability to create opportunities and destabilise opposing defences.
Fonseca’s remarks reflect how even when Salah doesn’t find the back of the net, he is a player that teams struggle to deal with.
Liverpool will hope that Salah continues to produce such performances as they push forward in both the Premier League and Champions League this season.
His form could be key to the Reds mounting serious challenges on both fronts.
