Liverpool fans were left deeply unsettled after witnessing Alexis Mac Allister embroiled in a perilous challenge during Argentina’s World Cup qualifying match against Peru on Tuesday night. The talented midfielder, who only recently made a full recovery from a troubling groin injury, played almost the entirety of the contest as Argentina narrowly secured a 1-0 win. However, a tense moment late in the game caused significant alarm among the Reds’ faithful.
The nerve-racking incident unfolded in the 88th minute when Mac Allister found himself on the receiving end of a reckless tackle by Peruvian defender Carlos Zambrano. The challenge, which many viewers labeled as highly dangerous, saw Zambrano leave his studs exposed and make a high, late lunge. Referee Wilmar Roldán issued a yellow card for the foul, but video replays aired on TyC Sports painted a far graver picture. The footage showed clear signs of a challenge that could easily have warranted a straight red card under different circumstances. Despite the severity of the situation, Mac Allister appeared to escape unscathed, managing to see out the remainder of the match.
The incident with Mac Allister wasn’t the only controversial moment involving Zambrano. Earlier in the game, the Peruvian defender sparked an altercation with none other than Lionel Messi, Argentina’s iconic captain. The clash provoked an uncharacteristically furious response from Messi, who angrily shouted, “What are you doing, idiot?” The heated confrontation reflected Zambrano’s abrasive style of play, which not only frustrated Argentina’s players but also stirred outrage among their supporters.
From Liverpool’s perspective, the key concern now lies in the condition of Mac Allister as he prepares to return to Merseyside following his international duties. Thankfully, initial assessments suggest that the midfielder has avoided any lasting damage and is likely to be available for club duties. However, his taxing transatlantic journey and the Reds’ tightly packed fixture schedule could influence his participation in Sunday’s Premier League clash with Southampton.
Manager Arne Slot faces a dilemma regarding Mac Allister’s immediate involvement. Given the midfielder’s recent injury history and the physical toll of international travel, Slot may choose to rest him to prevent overexertion. Another critical consideration is Mac Allister’s precarious disciplinary record. Having already accumulated four yellow cards in the Premier League, he stands just one caution away from a suspension. A booking against Southampton would sideline him for Liverpool’s pivotal encounter with Manchester City next weekend—a match that could have enormous implications for the title race.
As Liverpool prepares for a defining stretch of the season, Mac Allister’s fitness and availability have taken on even greater importance. The Argentine midfielder has been a central figure in Liverpool’s midfield this season, and his presence will be vital in the upcoming fixtures, particularly the high-stakes showdown with City. For now, Reds supporters can breathe a tentative sigh of relief, knowing that their star player appears to have avoided serious harm during his international exploits. However, his condition will undoubtedly remain under close scrutiny as Liverpool navigates the challenges ahead.
With crucial matches looming, including the highly anticipated battle against Pep Guardiola’s side, Liverpool’s success may hinge on ensuring Mac Allister remains in peak condition. Balancing his workload, managing his fitness, and avoiding further disciplinary issues will be critical as the Reds aim to maintain their momentum in what is shaping up to be a fiercely competitive Premier League campaign.