Benfica 1 - 3 Liverpool
In what proved to be the classic game of two halves on a performance level. Liverpool came away with a priceless 3-1 away victory in the European Cup Quarter Final against Benfica.
The Portuguese giants came out the traps quick buoyed on by an electric atmosphere but were quickly pegged back by a resurgent Liverpool side. Performances of late have been a little lacklustre but this first half showing had it all. Diaz came back into the team down the left. Mane went central again and Mo took up his place on the right. This attacking set up just screams pace and goals.
And the goals were soon to come. Konate rose highest of all and planted a nice header low to the keepers left from a corner. His first goal in the Champions League for the mighty red (yellow) machine.. With Benfica drawn in to attack us we hit them quite a few times on the counter and with some really nice play to split their defence. It should have been 4 or 5 before Mane hit the second.Trent fired an amazing long range pass right on to Diaz's head, and the Man of the Match nodded the ball into Mane's path for a simple tap in.
At half time once more we were thinking 4 or 5 and rest a few ready for City. Yet this is the Quarters of the best European competition and Benfica reminded of me of us in the not so old days. They know what it takes to play in these competitions and they had a real go at us second half. Admittedly their goal came from Nunez after a Konate error and severe lack of closing down but they certainly deserved a goal. Again I never felt they would score more. With Alisson, Virg , Konate and Fabs you never feel to concerned and also you felt we could score at anytime.
Which we did after a slightly deflected through ball from Naby sent Diaz away to round the keeper and put the ball into an empty net. On to Diaz.. This lad was once again awesome. You could see with the assist for Mane this is going to be a regular occurance as there was no second thought and he celebrated like he'd scored the goal himself. He was a constant threat and got a few shots away and links up nicely with.. well.. everyone.. Get a full pre season in this lad and a few English lessons and he's gonna be pretty unplayable..
Want To See Some Photos..
Here's a selection of cool photos from our win against Benfica