Liverpool came from behind to defeat Atlético Madrid 2-1 at Anfield in their opening Champions League match of the 2026-27 campaign, despite Julián Álvarez starting for the Spanish side after doubts over his fitness and involvement.

Marcos Llorente gave Atlético an early lead in the 17th minute after Álvarez created the opening with a well-weighted pass. Liverpool responded before half-time through Dominik Szoboszlai, before Alexis Mac Allister completed the comeback early in the second half.

The result handed new Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola a winning start in the Champions League, while Diego Simeone's Atlético suffered their second consecutive defeat after their 3-0 loss to Athletic Club in La Liga.

Julián Álvarez Starts Despite Pre-Match Doubts

Álvarez's presence in the starting XI was one of the biggest talking points before kick-off.

Simeone had initially indicated that the Argentina international was not yet ready to start, saying the forward was still progressing physically. However, the Atlético coach ultimately changed his plans and selected Álvarez from the beginning alongside Kang-in Lee.

The decision quickly paid off. Álvarez dropped deeper to receive the ball and then released Llorente into space, with the midfielder finishing from the edge of the box to put Atlético ahead.

The former Manchester City forward also tested Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson with a long-range effort later in the first half.

Liverpool Turn the Game Around

Liverpool continued to control large periods of the contest despite falling behind.

Szoboszlai restored parity in the 40th minute, giving the home side momentum heading into the interval. Mac Allister then struck in the 50th minute to put Liverpool ahead.

Atlético attempted to respond but struggled to maintain sustained attacking pressure as Liverpool's intensity increased.

The Spanish side also had goalkeeper Jan Oblak to thank for preventing the deficit from becoming larger, with the experienced goalkeeper making several important interventions.

Atlético's Squad Issues Before Anfield

Atlético arrived in England without several players available to Simeone.

Alexander Sørloth was ruled out with a thigh problem, while Arnau Ortiz was unavailable because of a European suspension dating back to his sending-off for Slask Wroclaw in 2024. His suspension carried over after his move to Atlético.

The club was also managing the fitness of new signing Jonathan David, who had only recently joined and had experienced a problem before a recent match.

Despite those concerns, Simeone had enough attacking options to select Álvarez, Kang-in Lee and other summer additions.

Álvarez's Difficult Summer Continues

The Champions League appearance came after a turbulent summer for Álvarez.

The Argentina striker was linked with a move away from Atlético, with Barcelona reportedly among the clubs interested. Atlético ultimately kept the forward, and his return to the squad was met with some hostility from sections of the club's support after the transfer controversy.

His start at Anfield therefore represented an important moment for both player and club.

Álvarez had been one of Atlético's most productive players in the previous Champions League campaign, scoring 10 goals and providing five assists in 15 appearances, according to Spanish outlet AS.

Liverpool Begin European Campaign With a Statement

Liverpool's 2-1 victory gives Iraola a strong start on the European stage and extends the club's positive opening to the Champions League campaign.

For Atlético, the defeat highlights the challenges facing a squad that has undergone significant changes and is still adapting to new arrivals.

Despite the result, Álvarez's performance was one of the more encouraging aspects for Simeone. After a difficult period surrounding his future, the forward was trusted with a starting role at one of Europe's most demanding venues and played a direct part in Atlético's opening goal.

The defeat means Atlético will now look to respond in their next Champions League fixture, while Liverpool can build on a comeback victory that underlined their ability to recover from an early setback.