Champions League review: Liverpool sidestep Salah saga as Chelsea slip up

The Guardian – SportThursday, December 11, 2025 at 1:30:46 PM
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Champions League review: Liverpool sidestep Salah saga as Chelsea slip up
  • Manchester City achieved a significant 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu, with Erling Haaland scoring the decisive goal. Liverpool managed to secure a narrow 1-0 win against Inter Milan despite the absence of star forward Mohamed Salah, while Chelsea faced a setback, losing to Atalanta. This matchday highlighted the contrasting fortunes of these prominent clubs in the Champions League.
  • The win for Manchester City not only boosts their confidence but also places pressure on Real Madrid's coach Xabi Alonso, who is facing scrutiny due to the team's recent struggles. Liverpool's ability to perform without Salah indicates their depth and resilience, while Chelsea's defeat raises questions about their defensive capabilities and overall strategy.
  • This round of matches underscores the competitive nature of the Champions League, where teams like Manchester City and Liverpool are vying for supremacy, while others like Chelsea are grappling with inconsistencies. The performances of key players such as Haaland and the implications of Salah's absence reflect broader themes of team dynamics and the impact of individual contributions in high-stakes matches.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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