Atlético de Madrid began their Champions League campaign with a high-intensity clash at Anfield, where Liverpool snatched victory in the closing minutes thanks to a decisive goal from Virgil van Dijk. Despite two goals from Marcos Llorente, the Spanish side left empty-handed in their European debut.

What Did Llorente Say About Atlético’s Start?

The midfielder did not shy away from criticism, stressing the need for accountability.
“We need self-criticism because we can’t start games the way we did. It makes everything so much harder,” Llorente told Movistar after the match. He admitted the opening ten minutes were decisive:
“Van Dijk’s goal can always happen, he’s a great header. What cannot happen are two early goals like that.”

How Did He Evaluate Atlético’s Effort at Anfield?

Despite the poor start, Llorente highlighted the team’s reaction and fighting spirit.
“It’s a shame because we never stopped believing. We tried until the end. They’re a great team, especially here at home. On the corner, we must have lost our mark—I don’t know what happened—and he scored a great goal,” he explained.

The midfielder insisted that when Atlético sticks together with clear ideas, they can compete with anyone. Still, he admitted the comeback attempt wasn’t enough:
“It didn’t count for anything, and now we have to focus on the next one.”

What Did He Say About His Brace?

Llorente was Atlético’s standout in attack with two goals that briefly gave his side hope at Anfield. However, he downplayed his individual contribution:
“I don’t think about that. I think about the three points, about the team being good, and today the goals served for little. It’s only the first Champions League match, there’s still a long way to go. Aside from the first 10 or 15 minutes, I think we played a good game.”