Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso acknowledged Liverpool’s set-piece superiority as the decisive factor in their 1-0 Champions League defeat at Anfield on Tuesday. Alexis Mac Allister’s first-half header from a free-kick secured victory for Liverpool, exposing defensive frailties in Alonso’s lineup.

“Set pieces remain our primary vulnerability,” Alonso admitted post-match. “Today’s concession was preventable. Liverpool pressed aggressively and executed set-plays effectively. Their forwards capitalized on our errors to create dangerous opportunities.”

The loss marked Real Madrid’s first Champions League setback after three commanding victories. Significantly, it was also their first scoreless outing this season, with star attackers Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappé failing to register any shots on target.

Henry Questions Vinicius’ Approach

Former Arsenal legend Thierry Henry delivered scathing criticism of Vinicius Junior’s performance. The CBS Sports pundit expressed bewilderment at the Brazilian’s passive approach against Liverpool’s 20-year-old right-back Conor Bradley.

“I cannot comprehend his mentality,” Henry stated. “Early in the match, Vinicius had Bradley isolated but failed to maintain pressure. Why allow a young defender to settle? You must attack relentlessly until he earns a booking that limits his defending.”

Henry highlighted a pivotal moment where Vinicius retreated instead of exploiting a one-on-one opportunity: “He passed backward to his left-back when facing Bradley alone. When the ball returned, three defenders surrounded him. The mathematics were simple – attack the isolated defender.”

The French icon emphasized the importance of adaptability: “Football demands reading the game moment by moment. When opponents retreat, midfielders must capitalize with long-range efforts. Vinicius failed to recognize these tactical openings.”