Jürgen Klopp feels thrill of Liverpool’s return among Europe’s giants

In truth Liverpool secured their place in the Champions League quarter-finals three weeks ago but the formality of victory over Porto does not lessen their achievement. Jürgen Klopp’s team enjoyed the fruits of a ruthless demolition in Portugal and eased into the last eight. “It was time we showed up again,” purred a contented Liverpool manager.

Anfield staged an unusual last-16 second leg: one lacking goals, excitement and the competitive edge the game requires at any level. Liverpool had no complaints. The onus was on the Portuguese league leaders to address their 5-0 first-leg humbling and, courtesy of a professional job by Klopp’s team, they never looked likely to become the first side to overturn a five-goal deficit in the Champions League.

The return leg was enlivened only after Mohamed Salah’s late introduction but, aside from a spectacular save from his fellow substitute Danny Ings, the veteran keeper Iker Casillas was barely troubled. Liverpool will be hanging around for some time yet on current form. This was more a test of their mentality than ability according to Klopp and it was one they passed with ease en route to their first quarter-final appearance since defeat by Chelsea nine years ago.



Source: theguardian

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