Trent Alexander-Arnold was thrilled with his goal as Liverpool defeated Hoffenheim 2-1 in Germany for the first-leg on their Champions League playoff.

The 18-year-old Scouser marked his European debut in memorable fashion, curling home a 25-yard free-kick to give his side a first-half advantage.

James Milner's deflected effort extended the advantage after the break, and though the Reds conceded a late goal to Mark Uth, Jurgen Klopp's side will be overwhelming favourites to reach the group stages when the teams meet at Anfield in next week's second leg.

Speaking afterwards, Alexander-Arnold said: “Obviously it's a thing of dreams to make your European debut for your boyhood club, and to mark it with a goal as well is very special.

“But most importantly we got the win. We're disappointed to concede the goal, but it's nice to take a lead back to Anfield."

On his free-kick, the teenager added: “I kind of got egged on to do it, to be honest. I never put my hand up at first, but I had the confidence to finally take it and it paid off!"

Captain Jordan Henderson was full of praise for his rookie colleague afterwards, saying: “He was brilliant. He was outstanding last season and he's come back and gone up a level again. He's been brilliant in pre-season, and I thought he was outstanding last week and again tonight.

“The free kick is no coincidence, he's been doing that in training for the last few weeks. That's why he's on them, and he delivered on the big stage. Fair play to him!"