Liverpool 2-1 LOSC Lille: Reds seal Champions League last 16 spot with hard-fought victory over 10-man Lille

Liverpool secured their place in the Champions League Round of 16 with a thrilling 2-1 win over 10-man Lille at Anfield on Tuesday. Goals from star forward Mohamed Salah and substitute Harvey Elliott ensured victory for the Reds, keeping their campaign on track.

Mohamed Salah opened the scoring in the 34th minute, netting his 50th European goal for Liverpool. After Kostas Tsimikas won possession deep in Liverpool’s half, Curtis Jones launched a pinpoint pass to Salah, who effortlessly curled the ball past Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier.

Reflecting on Salah’s achievement, Liverpool manager Arne Slot remarked, "Special is, I think, the word that describes Mo's performance at this club. Or maybe there are even better words to use, but he's been outstanding for this club for so many years, and still he does. Today, great goal."

Despite losing Aissa Mandi to a red card in the 59th minute, Lille responded swiftly. Jonathan David capitalized on a blocked shot by Hakon Arnar Haraldsson to level the game just three minutes later. The goal marked David's fifth of the tournament’s league phase and highlighted Lille’s fighting spirit.

David praised Liverpool post-match, stating, "Very good team. I think they might be the best team in the world at the moment."

Liverpool reclaimed their lead in the 67th minute when Harvey Elliott’s shot from the edge of the box took a fortunate deflection and found the back of the net. The goal ultimately proved decisive, helping Liverpool maintain their stronghold atop the Champions League table.

Darwin Nunez nearly added a third for the Reds late in the game, but his effort was ruled out for offside.

The victory solidified Liverpool’s unbeaten run in the tournament’s league phase, keeping them three points clear of second-placed Barcelona with one game remaining. Lille, despite the loss, showcased their quality early in the match, with Gabriel Gudmundsson narrowly missing the target in the opening minute.

Salah, though instrumental in Liverpool’s win, missed several promising chances, including a misfire in the 44th minute when he was one-on-one with the goalkeeper.

Liverpool will face PSV Eindhoven in their final league-phase match on January 29, while Lille will host Feyenoord as both teams look to conclude their campaigns on a high note.

SportsLigue