Liverpool extended their perfect record in the UEFA Champions League with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Girona at the Estadi Montilivi, securing their sixth consecutive win in the competition. The triumph, which handed Girona a fifth defeat in their maiden European campaign, was a milestone achievement for manager Arne Slot’s side.
The match began with promise for Liverpool, as Ryan Gravenberch threaded a pass to Darwin Núñez, who tested Girona goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga from a tight angle. However, the home side had their chances as well, with Daley Blind failing to connect with a Miguel Gutiérrez cross from close range. Bryan Gil and Gutiérrez also had efforts saved by Liverpool’s returning goalkeeper Alisson, while Alejandro Francés and Yáser Asprilla were both denied by the Brazilian shot-stopper in a fast-paced first half.
Girona showed resilience after the break, with Arnaut Danjuma forcing a save from Alisson early in the second half. But Liverpool began to assert control, and on the hour mark, a scramble in the box saw Andy Robertson’s shot parried by Gazzaniga, with VAR awarding a penalty after Donny van de Beek fouled Luis Díaz. Mohamed Salah stepped up to take the spot-kick and calmly converted it, scoring his second UCL goal of the campaign to give Liverpool the lead.
Despite Girona’s spirited efforts, Liverpool’s defense held firm, and they saw out the victory without conceding. Trent Alexander-Arnold came close to adding a second with a trademark free-kick late in the match. The win not only secured three points for Liverpool but also guaranteed their place at the top of the UCL standings heading into the penultimate matchday, with a spot in the last 16 potentially confirmed depending on other results.
The victory was bittersweet for Liverpool, as they dedicated the milestone to a loyal supporter who tragically passed away during the match. The team and fans honored the memory of their late supporter, with a poignant tribute reflecting the close bond between the club and its followers. Meanwhile, Girona’s failure to score for a third consecutive UCL match left them three points adrift of a top-24 finish, with their European hopes hanging by a thread.
