Rio Ferdinand Claims Liverpool Are The Best Team In Europe After Dominant Win Over Real Madrid

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Liverpool's recent 2-0 victory over Real Madrid at Anfield has sparked discussions about their current form in Europe. The Premier League leaders secured the win with second-half goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo. Kylian Mbappe missed a penalty that could have levelled the score for Real Madrid. This result marked Liverpool as only the fifth team to win their first five Champions League games while conceding no more than one goal, joining Milan, Juventus, Atletico Madrid, and PSG.

Rio Ferdinand expressed admiration for Liverpool's performance, suggesting they might be Europe's top team at present. "They look like the best team in Europe at the moment," he told TNT Sports. Ferdinand highlighted their teamwork and hunger for success, describing them as relentless on the field. He credited Arne Slot's influence on the team's tenacity and determination.

Liverpool's dominance over Real Madrid was evident as they topped the Champions League group stage with 15 points. They achieved an expected goals (xG) total of 2.73 compared to Real Madrid's 1.22 xG, taking 17 shots against the visitors' eight. Ferdinand noted that players like Mo Salah have a killer instinct that helps finish games decisively.

Caoimhin Kelleher has proven his skill in saving penalties for Liverpool, having stopped three out of four faced in all competitions, excluding shootouts. Meanwhile, Mbappe has struggled since joining Real Madrid this summer, scoring just once in the Champions League this season. His missed penalty against Liverpool was only his second miss in this competition.

Despite Mbappe's recent challenges, former Real Madrid player Gareth Bale remains optimistic about his potential in Spain. "It does happen," Bale said regarding missed penalties. "I've missed penalties; everyone has missed penalties." Bale believes Mbappe is among the world's best and expects him to regain form soon.

The impressive display by Liverpool has set a high standard for other European teams to follow. Their ability to perform under pressure against a formidable opponent like Real Madrid highlights their strength and potential in this season's Champions League campaign.