Liverpool 2-1 Atletico Madrid: What Iraola and Mac Allister said
- Published
Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola, speaking to TNT Sports: "Difficult to ask for more. I think we have shown big character, especially the players after a difficult start.
"I loved it - the atmosphere has been incredible and I feel lucky to experience it. I think I have to take blame from the beginning because they surprised me a little bit tactically they played a five at the back - a 5-3-2. We expected something different and waited to correct it. After half-time, we had a much better game, we pressed better, and I think we have been a better team."
On Alexis Mac Allister: "Yes, lovely goal for him and from Dominik [Szoboszlai]. They ran a lot. Alexis has been vert smart - I think it was a very cheap first yellow. They were putting pressure to find the second one. He is a smart player and he could survive that."
On the crowd: "I was enjoying it. They're a very good team. Technically, in the middle, lovely players. It is not easy to press those players as they have quality.
"They have been playing together forever. We find another comeback after Forest, after Newcastle. We still have this thing to improve in the beginning of the games, but I am happy as we have shown some character.
"This is the Champions League, you don't have easy games."
Hit play below to hear more from Iraola or listen on BBC Sounds here
Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister, speaking to TNT Sports: "It was a good comeback.
"I think the first half was really good. We conceded a goal because we were not ready, and we did not defend well, other than it was a good first half.
"The beginning of the second half was really good. We managed to score the second goal, which is good.
"Overall, it was a good performance. Now we have to think about the next one.
"Before the game we spoke about the beginning of the first half and second half. I liked the mentality. I think we showed desire today. We got the fans behind us and that's really important when you play at Anfield. A positive step for us."
On the goal boosting his chances of a new contract: "I don't know - we will see."
Did you know?
Andoni Iraola enjoyed his first win over Diego Simeone in his managerial career having failed to win any of his four prior encounters in La Liga in charge of Rayo Vallecano (D1 L3).
Five of Alexis Mac Allister's 20 goals for Liverpool in all competitions have come from outside the penalty area, only Dominik Szoboszlai (12) has more for the club since his debut in August 2023.
