Liverpool reclaimed the top spot in their Champions League group with a 2-0 victory over Real Madrid on Wednesday night, adding to their dominance as Premier League leaders. Arne Slot’s side secured the win with Alexis Mac Allister opening the scoring in the 52nd minute, followed by Cody Gakpo’s header in the 77th minute. While Mac Allister and Gakpo stole the limelight with their goals, several Reds players delivered heroic performances.
Robertson conceded a penalty just after the hour mark, giving Kylian Mbappé the chance to level the score. However, Caoimhin Kelleher stepped up to the challenge, diving the right way to deny the Real Madrid star.
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The save drew high praise from former Liverpool midfielder Steve McManaman, who lauded the Republic of Ireland international’s performance. Since Alisson’s injury against Crystal Palace, Kelleher has taken charge between the posts, delivering five clean sheets in ten appearances. His impressive form has sparked debates over whether he deserves more than a place on the bench when Alisson returns.
Caoimhin Kelleher deemed an ‘absolute superstar’
Steve McManaman hailed Caoimhin Kelleher as an “absolute superstar in his own right,” rather than just one of the league’s best second-choice keepers. Speaking on TNT Sports, as transcribed by BBC Sport, the former Liverpool and Real Madrid star said,
“Kelleher is doing fantastic. Every time he is called upon, he stands up.”
“He is an absolute superstar in his own right. He is not a number two. He is an equal number one. He is fantastic.”
Kelleher made his 10th appearance of the season for Liverpool against Los Blancos, and despite limited game time, he once again impressed fans and pundits alike. Earning £10,000 per week, the Republic of Ireland international has shown remarkable composure, with some fans even suggesting Alisson isn’t being missed.
The decision on whether Liverpool will stick with their homegrown talent or revert to their legendary first-choice superstar remains to be seen. However, Kelleher has made his intentions clear: if starter opportunities don’t come his way, he may look to secure a move elsewhere.
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Liverpool are set to face Manchester City next in a mammoth clash between the Premier League leaders and the reigning champions. The showdown is scheduled for 4 pm on Sunday, 1 December, at Anfield. Whether Alisson Becker will return or Caoimhin Kelleher will continue in goal remains uncertain, but as Arne Slot stated, everything will follow the established pecking order.