Mac Allister and Salah apply Liverpool's finishing touches

There will be tougher tests to come, as Arne Slot frequently likes to remind Liverpool, but there is no disputing the confidence, quality and momentum that is surging through this team under the guidance of its new head coach.

- Andy Hunter

Slot became the first Liverpool manager or head coach in history to record eight victories from his first nine matches in charge as Bologna were dispatched in a hard-fought contest at Anfield.

Alexis Mac Allister marked his first Champions League home game for Liverpool with his first goal of the season. Mohamed Salah quashed Bologna's growing hopes of a point with a stunning second half strike to extend his European goalscoring record for the club on Liverpool's 250th appearance in the Champions League/European Cup. New leader, new era this may be, but Liverpool's authority on the European stage remains unchanged.

Bologna deserved Liverpool's respect, Slot had insisted, having qualified for the Champions League for the first time in their history last season with a club record 68 points.

Their boisterous, sold-out away support was certainly up for their inaugural away trip in the competition.

The Italians appeared weakened, and uncertain in their new, elevated company, during a dominant opening 20 minutes from Liverpool who took a deserved lead through Mac Allister.