Conor Bradley shines as Liverpool outmuscle Real Madrid on Alexander-Arnold’s return
Northern Ireland right-back Conor Bradley delivered a composed and intense performance that set the tone for a revitalized Liverpool side. On a rain-soaked night at Anfield, tension built as Real Madrid sought one last push in a game that had flirted with theatrical drama.
As Trent Alexander-Arnold prepared one of his signature dipping crosses, it briefly seemed he might yet conjure a point that Liverpool hardly merited. Yet Real’s forwards provided him with no target, and his cross drifted into empty space with Vinícius Júnior chasing halfheartedly.
Bradley, who had already met the Brazilian firmly but fairly near the byline earlier in the match, stood his ground once again. Protecting the ball as Vinícius went sprawling, Liverpool’s young defender capped off a commanding display that overshadowed all side stories.
“What a triumph this was for Bradley, who must fancy being wheeled out against La Liga’s leaders every week.”
Almost a year earlier, Bradley had subdued Kylian Mbappé in a similar fashion when Liverpool had beaten Real Madrid 2–0. This time, up against Vinícius Júnior, his authority remained intact.
Author’s Summary
Bradley’s assured defending and relentless energy symbolized Liverpool’s renewed intensity, marking his standout performance as a defining moment in their victory over Real Madrid.