Jude Bellingham said there was no shame in losing to Liverpool but suggested Arne Slott’s side wanted it more after their 2-0 defeat by Real Madrid at Anfield.
Goals from Alexis McAllister and Cody Gakpo extended Liverpool’s 100 per cent record in the Champions League while securing a first win against Real Madrid in 15 years.
Liverpool took the lead after the break but saw Kylian Mbappe equalize after Andy Robertson fouled Lucas Vazquez, with the Madrid number 9 seeing his penalty converted by Caoimhin Kelleher before the hosts eventually doubled their lead.
Speaking TNT: After the game, Bellingham said Liverpool, who face Manchester City this Sunday live on Sky Sports, had made it difficult for his side to get a foothold in the game.
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“Honestly, they were more prepared than we were,” he said.
“It’s a bad result against the best performing team in Europe. It’s not a shame to come here and lose, but we’re disappointed with our performances.
“From the first minute they controlled the game. We never really made the most of the spell we had. When we got the ball back, we tried to counter-attack a few times.
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Paul Merson praised Liverpool and Conor Bradley after their 2-0 Champions League win over Real Madrid ahead of their Premier League clash against Manchester City.
“We turned it over so much that they were able to keep control. Defensively, they kept us in a spot where we couldn’t really hurt them that much.”
Mbappé’s penalty was missed to level the game at 1-0, adding to an unprecedented display from the 25-year-old that saw him take just two shots, the only one being a save.However, Bellingham stood up for his team-mate and backed him up for Madrid to convey great moments.
“The pressure he’s under because of how good he is is huge, it’s awesome,” he said.
“The penalty wasn’t the reason we lost the game. We weren’t good enough as a team on the night. They outplayed us, that’s for sure.
“Kilian can hold his head high. I know for sure he will create many more moments that are huge for this club.”
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Merson responded to the penalties missed by Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe and Liverpool striker Mo Salah in the Champions League.
Slott awaits Bradley-Konate’s verdict after double injury
Liverpool manager Slott says the club will await the verdict on Conor Bradley and Ibrahima Konate after the pair suffered late injuries against Real Madrid, with Joe Gomez replacing Bradley after going down with what appeared to be hamstring pain. : Konate also received treatment after the final whistle.
When asked about their injuries during his postgame press conference, Slott said: “I know where they hurt, but how bad or how good it is, it’s hard to judge so close after the game.
“That’s what happens during the season. We missed Trent (Alexander-Arnold) today, we missed Alisson today. We didn’t miss Trent because he was on the bench, but he couldn’t play from the start, but we missed Kostas.
“It’s been a season. I really hope they’re both available to play (against Manchester City) because we want them all to be available, but if not, someone has to step up. , and so far this season everyone I (has) been picked to start.
“That’s also what will happen on Sunday if they can play, but also if they can’t play then the others will step up.”
Slot: Tonight should be about Kelleher’s importance
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Slot praised goalkeeper Caoim Kelleher for his performance in the win against Real Madrid
Kelleher’s penalty against Mbappé ensured his side went ahead.The Liverpool keeper has now saved three of the last four penalties he has faced for Liverpool in all competitions, excluding shootouts.
His strong hand to keep Mbappe out comes just days after he stopped a penalty against Southampton but missed the rebound. Asked if his fitness made it difficult for him to leave when Alisson returns from injury, he said .
“I’ve said this before. It’s not a big moment for him. Let it be the headlines.”
Watch Liverpool take on Manchester City live on Sky Sports this Sunday, kick-off 4pm.
