Anfield was charged and tense as Liverpool and Real Madrid engaged in a tactical battle during the opening half-hour of their Champions League clash on Wednesday night.
Despite the legendary atmosphere associated with European nights at the iconic venue, the initial moments were relatively restrained.
Whether it was due to the extended format or the mutual respect between both sides, there was an air of caution that Ron Atkinson often noted in his ITV commentary: sometimes, a decisive tackle is needed to invigorate the crowd.
That’s where Conor Bradley made his mark.
Filling in for the injured Trent Alexander-Arnold, Bradley was tasked with containing Kylian Mbappe. Although Mbappe has had a lukewarm start to his tenure at Madrid, most players would feel a sense of trepidation regarding such a challenge.
As Mbappe sped down the left flank around the half-hour mark, instead of succumbing to fear as an elite athlete bore down on him, Bradley launched himself into the path of his opponent with the urgency of a runaway train.
A well-timed kick took the ball away, while the follow-through sent the 2022 World Cup Golden Boot winner crashing into the sodden Merseyside grass, tarnishing his pristine white Madrid shirt like an unsuccessful detergent advertisement.
Anfield erupted in appreciation. Bradley quickly rose to his feet and cleared the ball. Meanwhile, Mbappe limped off, attempting to hide his wounded pride. In that moment, Liverpool seized control of the game.
One of the best tackles you’ll see from Conor Bradley on Kylian Mbappé ⛔ pic.twitter.com/Ucn29ejXPn
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 27, 2024
It’s astonishing to reflect that Bradley was still waiting for his Premier League debut at the beginning of 2024. Just weeks later, following an outstanding goal and performance against Chelsea, he garnered enthusiastic praise from the supporters at Anfield.
After the return of Alexander-Arnold from injury last spring, Bradley’s opportunities became more limited. However, another period without the England star opened up fresh prospects for the young full-back.
The right-back position has evolved since Slot took over from Jurgen Klopp during the summer, now leaning more toward a traditional stance rather than the inverted style.
“It’s definitely more controlled now,” Bradley said in an interview with the Liverpool Echo last month. “The new manager prefers me to maintain my position rather than charging up and down the wing endlessly.
“He wants me to stay in position and play according to his strategies, requiring me to be in a specific spot at various stages of the match. It’s quite tactical, but I’m enjoying it and have learned a lot over the past few months.”
Slot showed no hesitation in relying on the Northern Ireland international. “I believe he has a bright future ahead because he’s an excellent talent and we need good players here at Liverpool,” he remarked recently.
“Last season, he stepped up well when he had to fill in for Trent, and now that Trent has been back in action.
“He’s a very good player, and although he faces significant competition from Trent, typically strong players find their way into the lineup. I anticipate that he will achieve similar results in the future with the club.”
With questions surrounding Alexander-Arnold’s long-term future—especially with speculation about a potential move to Madrid next summer—Bradley’s performances in the coming weeks will become increasingly crucial.
In this light, his impactful challenge on Mbappe serves to reassure both Slot and Liverpool supporters of his long-term viability in the position.
It will also undoubtedly give Bradley a boost in confidence despite his own late injury. Taking down one of the world’s elite players does wonders for a young man’s self-esteem.
Image Source: MamESPFoot @ YouTube
