Liverpool earned a much-needed boost as Arne Slot’s side secured a tense 1-0 Champions League victory over Inter Milan, thanks to an 88th-minute penalty calmly converted by Dominik Szoboszlai. The performance not only eased pressure on the dressing room but also showed the team’s resilience despite Mo Salah’s recent frustrations and a difficult season that began under emotional strain.
Inter strongly objected to the late penalty decision, which came after Alessandro Bastoni tugged Florian Wirtz’s shirt inside the box. Lautaro Martinez argued heatedly with referee Felix Zwayer, and cameras captured his visible disappointment after Szoboszlai scored. Even Slot and Andy Robertson admitted the call was soft, with Slot remarking that Liverpool “could have had 10 this season” if such decisions were consistently given.
Despite debate over the penalty, Liverpool were worthy winners. They showed greater intensity, created more chances, and controlled the final stages. A first-half goal was disallowed when Virgil van Dijk’s header struck Hugo Ekitike’s arm before Ibrahima Konaté tapped it in. Liverpool still outshot Inter 12-9 and produced more attempts on target, ending a home unbeaten Champions League run Inter had held since 2022.
Inter threatened in phases, particularly after Liverpool’s disallowed goal, with Nicolo Barella forcing pressure through set pieces and Martinez testing Alisson late in the first half. But Slot’s men stayed focused, absorbing pressure with only 14 outfield players available and managing their fourth match in ten days.
Szoboszlai delivered another standout performance, scoring his fifth goal of the season while operating in Salah’s usual right-sided role in a midfield diamond. His pressing, set-piece delivery, and defensive tracking were vital. With Alexis Mac Allister pushing higher and Ryan Gravenberch anchoring midfield, Liverpool disrupted Inter’s five-man midfield shape throughout the match.
Slot praised his team’s composure, noting that winning at San Siro against such a strong opponent is a meaningful achievement, especially during a challenging season.
Liverpool’s future without a fully firing Salah remains uncertain. The club’s third-highest scorer has struggled this season, with his goal contributions dropping significantly from last year. Factors like Diogo Jota’s tragic passing, the exits of Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz, and the absence of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s creative passing have all played roles in Salah’s decline. His penalty-area touches have fallen, and his public expression of frustration has intensified concerns around his form.
While many Liverpool players have struggled, Salah’s public criticism has drawn the most attention, leaving fans and the club with difficult questions as they look ahead.
