Liverpool kick off Champions League campaign with convincing 3-1 win over AC Milan

Liverpool kicked off their Champions League campaign with an authoritative 3-1 victory over AC Milan at the San Siro.

The victory marked Liverpool’s fourth consecutive away win at the iconic stadium.

Christian Pulisic gave Milan an early lead, but Liverpool dominated the remainder of the game. Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk scored first-half headers to turn the match around.

Dominik Szoboszlai sealed the win with a clever third goal, assisted by Cody Gakpo’s powerful run and precise pass.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot made two changes to the starting lineup, introducing Kostas Tsimikas and Cody Gakpo. Despite a slow start, Liverpool improved significantly after the initial 15 minutes.

Mohamed Salah hit the bar twice, and Diogo Jota missed a clear chance, but Liverpool’s quality eventually told.

Ryan Gravenberch’s midfield performance and Gakpo’s energetic display were notable positives.

The win takes on added importance in the new Champions League format, where only the top eight teams avoid a winter play-off to reach the latter stages.

Key Statistics:
– Liverpool are the only away team to win multiple Champions League games at the San Siro with four consecutive victories.

– Trent Alexander-Arnold created the most chances (3) and made the most tackles (3) in the first half.

– Alexander-Arnold provided his 11th Champions League assist, behind only Ashley Cole (12) among English defenders.