Champions League: Van Dijk’s Last-Minute Header Seals Liverpool’s 3-2 Thriller Over Atlético Madrid
Story: written by Okafor Joseph September 18,2025
Virgil van Dijk delivered a dramatic stoppage-time header to hand Liverpool a 3-2 win over Atlético Madrid in their UEFA Champions League opener at Anfield.
The Reds, under new manager Arne Slot, continued their streak of late heroics, having now scored decisive goals in the 83rd minute or later in five consecutive matches. The night ended in frustration for Atlético boss Diego Simeone, who was shown a red card after clashing with supporters near the touchline.
Liverpool’s lightning start
The hosts raced into a two-goal lead inside six minutes. Mohamed Salah’s fourth-minute free-kick deflected off Andrew Robertson and wrong-footed Jan Oblak, before the Egyptian combined with Ryan Gravenberch to coolly slot home a second.
Atlético clawed one back before the break as Marcos Llorente slipped the ball past Alisson. Liverpool’s record signing Alexander Isak made his highly anticipated debut but lasted just under an hour before being substituted. Salah later rattled the post in front of the Kop as Liverpool searched for a third.
Late drama at Anfield
Nine minutes from time, Llorente struck again with a deflected volley off Alexis Mac Allister, reviving memories of his famous 2020 double at Anfield. Atlético looked destined to snatch a point until Van Dijk rose highest in stoppage time to thunder home a corner, sealing all three points for the Premier League side.
Perfect start for Liverpool
The victory preserves Liverpool’s flawless run to start the season and keeps their momentum rolling in Europe. Atlético, meanwhile, left Merseyside regretting missed opportunities and their manager’s costly dismissal.
