ReactionAlexis Mac Allister: We showed our desire - we want to meet expectations
The Reds kicked off their European campaign for 2026-27 with a 2-1 victory over the La Liga club at Anfield on Wednesday night.
To secure the win, Andoni Iraola’s side had to recover from a 17th-minute concession to Marcos Llorente’s finish.
Dominik Szoboszlai drew them level with the help of a Ronald Araujo assist ahead of half-time and Mac Allister then smacked in a decider early in the second period.
Post-match, Mac Allister reflected on the game when speaking to TNT Sports. Read his reaction below.
On how pleasing the comeback was…
It was a good comeback. I think the first half was really good; we conceded a goal because we were not ready, we didn’t defend well. But other than that, I think it was a very good first half. Then, the beginning of the second half was really good and we managed to score the second goal, which is good. Overall, it was a very good performance. That’s really pleasing and now we have to think about the next one.
On the importance of the timing of Liverpool’s goals either side of half-time…
Definitely. Before the game, we spoke about the beginning of the first half and the beginning of the second half as well. I liked the mentality. We showed desire, we got the fans behind us and that’s really important when you play at Anfield. That’s what we want and I think it’s a really positive step for us.
On the technique behind his goal and if he knew it was going in straight away…
It was a good hit. Normally when I’m in those positions I like to shoot. It doesn’t happen very often but I’m happy because I love to score goals. Today, it was a nice goal and was important for the team as well, which is what I want.
On the win giving Liverpool extra confidence and what they can achieve in the Champions League this season…
It’s really important. What we can do, I don’t really know, it’s going to depend – it’s up to us. As I said yesterday, I think we have an amazing team. We have quality, we have desire and we have everything to be successful. But we need to show it. We have to have everyone in the same page and we can do great things. I know the expectations are high when you play for Liverpool and we want to meet them. We will try, we will work hard and hopefully we can get some trophies.