Szoboszlai’s Late Penalty Sinks Inter Milan as Salah’s Absence Dominates Champions League Clash

Liverpool claimed a crucial 1–0 Champions League victory over Inter Milan at the San Siro on Tuesday night, with Dominik Szoboszlai converting a late penalty to seal the win, a result made even more dramatic as Mohamed Salah was missing from the squad amid growing internal tensions at the club.

Salah, the star forward whose absence quickly became the biggest headline of the Inter Milan vs Liverpool clash, was left out after his recent outburst directed at the club hierarchy and manager Arne Slot. Reports from England suggest the decision to drop him was jointly taken by the board and the technical team. As a result, the Egyptian did not travel for the match, fueling further speculation about his future at Anfield.

Despite the drama, Liverpool, playing without Salah for one of their toughest Champions League group stage fixtures, kept their composure. Inter Milan struggled to create clear chances, managing only one shot on target in front of a disappointed 74,000-strong San Siro crowd.

With the game drifting toward a goalless draw, VAR stepped in late. An Inter defender was caught pulling a Liverpool shirt inside the box, and after review, the referee awarded a penalty. Szoboszlai stepped up in the 88th minute, sending the keeper the wrong way and silencing the home fans. The goal not only gave Liverpool the win but also shows the team’s ability to bring out results without having to totally depending on Salah

For Inter Milan, the defeat ends their long-standing European home record, Since 2022, Inter Milan had not lost an European game at home (San Siro). Their attack lacked sharpness, while their midfield failed to break down a resolute Liverpool setup. The loss puts them under pressure as they navigate theU EFA Champions League, standings.

For Liverpool, this Champions League win is a major boost, especially as it comes during one of the most turbulent weeks surrounding Salah’s relationship with the club. Arne Slot praised his players for showing discipline and strong mentality, noting that the victory “proved Liverpool can stand firm even in the middle of distractions.”

As Liverpool return to England with three crucial points, focus now shifts back to the lingering question dominating headlines: Why did Mohamed Salah miss the Inter vs Liverpool match? And what does his absence mean for the club going forward?

One thing is clear, while Salah’s future remains uncertain, Liverpool’s Champions League ambitions remain very much alive.