If there is anyone whose ever been connected with Liverpool football club who knows when all hope is not lost, then it has to be Rafael Benitez.
The Spaniard and mastermind behind the miracle of Istanbul 15 years ago, has given his verdict on why fans of the Reds should be optimistic heading into their Champions League last 16 clash with Atletico Madrid this evening. Jurgen Klopp’s side will have to overturn a 1-0 deficit after losing on their travels to the Spanish capital. Still, recent history suggests the Merseyside club thrive as underdogs on mammoth European occasions.
What did he say?
Speaking to the Times, the current Dalian Professional manager said: “They will create chances, put a lot of pressure on their rivals and the supporters will be behind them.”
“The main thing for Liverpool is to stay calm, not to panic or rush things, and they must not make any big mistakes. It is important to keep a good balance in the team.
“Also, Liverpool will look to regain the ball high up the pitch if it is possible, so that does not give Atletico time to reorganise,” added the Champions League winning manager.
Plenty to smile about
Liverpool fans have a myriad of reasons to be optimistic heading into the game despite kicking off a goal down. Captain Jordan Henderson is fit to return and could start against Diego Simeone’s side, having been a talismanic figure for the Reds of late and his inclusion is a monumental boost.
Furthermore, the historical statistics suggest that Liverpool still have an excellent opportunity to progress in the tie as Klopp has never lost a home Champions League tie with the Merseyside club, winning 11 and drawing four. Furthermore, on each of their last two previous first leg away defeats the Reds have come back to win the tie, both of which came at the semi-final stage, against Chelsea in 2006/07 and Barcelona last season.
But the most telling statistic of all is that Liverpool have never lost against Atletico Madrid at Anfield, having met them in the Champions League group stage of 2008/09 and Europa League semi-final of the 2009/10 season. Avoiding defeat alone will not be enough to see Liverpool progress, but based on the past they are in with an excellent chance of succeeding in this second leg.
