Liverpool Champions League Thread

[Mirko Mandic]

1-0 at anfield 1-2 at del alpi liv 3-1juve.

[Sgt.Miller]

Honestly, I could any of the remaining clubs win this year's European title. You'll laugh, but I'm also including PSV and Lyon in that statement. I truly believe that anything could happen in this year's Champions League.

On a side note, I talked to this Italian man who works as an Earth Science instructor at my school. He noticed that I was wearing a Zidane jersey and told me about Zizou's days in Torino; he loves Juve. When he asked me what club I follow, I was weary because I didn't want to offend him–with Heysel in my mind. I said Liverpool. He was a little dissappointed, but we both agreed that this would be a good occasion to come together and put things right. Hopefully the Kop will create a Mosiac that will honor those who lost their lives on that fateful day. Perhaps we can mend fences, and may be Juve will be as gracious on the return leg in Italy.

:yield:

[Highway Penguin]

I think we need to give them a warm welcome back.
I hope our fans there won't get out of control as that'd be a horrible way for Juve fans to visit us.

This will be a good match.

[benherbert]

Anything can happen.

;)

Hey Ben! I feel bad for you Gunners. What are your opinions on why Arsenal cannot go far in Europe? What changes do you feel need to be made?

:kiss: seriously i don't have a clue i think we should drug bergkamp and smuggle him on the plane when we play away haha

[Sgt.Miller]

Apparently we have a lot of festivities lined up for them:

Click Here (http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N148338050401-2251.htm)

Hopefully we can win, but I would like for the supporters to celebrate in grace. I mean, we've been through Hillsborough so I think we can empathize with their supporters in this regard.

:yield:

[RealMadrilismo]

Hard game for liverpool... I think Juventus have more of a chance to win since they seem to be the stronger team, but in soccer the best doesn't always win. I got my fingers crossed for liverpool to win.

Liverpool!!!!!!!!

[Becks]

Liverpool!!! Hopefully with their top squad and form.

Juventus might pull it off, but Pool might shock us all.

[GiorgioII]

Come on Liverpool. The defence is quite strong and if they perform to their great heights they can maybe just stop Ibrahimovic and co. The midfield will also need to play at their best and with Stevie G at the heart of the team maybe they can control this game. Up front though is where we may struggle....come on Liverpool. Have no doubts about it though we need a miracle to qualify over the two legs! :silly:

[mel81x]

Hyypia just scored 10' Liv 1 - Juv 0

[baggy]

Nice first half result! 2-0! Couldn't been better! C'mon guys, I want you to totally slaughter Juve!

[RealMadrilismo]

LIVERPOOL!!!!

I knew they were going to win. What a goal by Luis Garcia!!!!! It was amazing. Juvertus goal at second half was lame. Big mistake by casson letting it in. I think Dudek would of done a better job.

[INTER FAN/BG/]

A fantastic first half for Liverpool and a dissapointing second one!After that match I can say that Juve are the favourites if a miracle doesn't happen for Liverpool!Good luck though!

[mel81x]

yes total blunder in the second half. an away goal is going to ruin any chances unless l'pool can put two away at Turin again who knows then even a loss puts em straight thru

[baggy]

It was such a pitty to get that goal from Juve. They're just too dumb, how could they score you. However, I believe that you can do sth in Turin, so that you can kick their @$$es out of CL.

[Becks]

Either way, it was good to see Pool get a win in the CL.

[baggy]

Either way, it was good to see Pool get a win in the CL.

Still, I expected more from L'pool in the second half, at least to keep the 2-0...

[Becks]

It would've been nice to have the score remain 2-0. But then again, nearly everyone picked Juve to win this.

[Ivan7637]

It would've been nice to have the score remain 2-0. But then again, nearly everyone picked Juve to win this.

Juve should have won it but they just couldn't take advantage of their chances as they clearly had more. After the second goal from liverpool( a pure beauty ;) ) ibrahimovic hit the post(should have gone in). Then another juve player is left right infront of the goal and kicks the ball straight at the goalie(idiot). Then that offside goal was pure crap as the reply shows the he clearly was not offside. In my opinion it should have been a 2-2 or 1-1 but a lot of credit to liverpool for scoring 2 goals against a great defense. Good game.. ;)

by the way the juve goal should have been saved, you have a retarded goal keeper. :boo:

[AstonVillaFan 2]

IMO even though im a juve fan today Liverpool was the much better team. Ibrahamvoich has improved alot. Carlson had a lot of good saves man and he is very young!

[Ivan7637]

IMO even though im a juve fan today Liverpool was the much better team. Ibrahamvoich has improved alot. Carlson had a lot of good saves man and he is very young!

didn't you watch the second half? juve dominated!

[Highway Penguin]

Good match.
We dominated the 1st half, and it was 50-50 second half. Carson made a mistake, a very big mistake, which I would never expect to be honest. Luis' goal was sick..::drools:

Hyypia was lucky to be unmarked. I was surprised at Juve, they were very disorganized.

Anyways, I think we can hold them at Turin..

[nachi88]

Liverpool played excellent yesterday to get the win, but holding on in turin might prove to be very difficult. Also Carson, cant be blamed , as he pulled one fantastic save, from del piero.

Being a bayern fan, i'd prefer liverpool to win, since I prefer to play you guys rather than juve, in the semi's.

[GiorgioII]

We must remember that any win against Juventus is a great win. All of Liverpool's players preformed well especially Baros and Gerrard. However because we couldn't keep them to 2-0 I think they must now be favourites to win the tie..... :fed-up:

[Lance Knight]

Great game guys, i am counting on u to win the title, i just hate the fact that morientes cant play, but baros, is playing amazing, and garica is offically a BOSS

Tuesday, April 5, 2005

Liverpool 2-1 Juventus: FT Report

PA

Liverpool gave one of Europe's finest sides an examination they will not forget in a hurry, but their Champions League future hangs by a thread after securing a 2-1 win against Juventus.

Two magnificent goals from Sami Hyypia and Luis Garcia gave Liverpool command in a first half in which they ran Juve ragged with a ferocious, high-tempo performance.


Rarely have the Italian giants been subjected to such a hounding, in fact they had conceded only two goals in the tournament before this emotional quarter-final first leg showdown at Anfield.

Before the game the thoughts were all about the Heysel disaster 20 years ago when these two sides last met in competitive action.

By half-time Anfield was relishing an outstanding, if unexpected performance from their heroes.

But Juventus were never likely to go down without a fight and their second half display of control, skill, constant movement and possession gave Liverpool an insight into what they will face in next week's return in Turin.

Fabio Cannavaro scored a deserved goal and somehow Liverpool clung onto their lead.

Whether they can do the same in Turin for the return remains unlikely on this evidence.

Rafael Benitez again opted not to risk Jerzy Dudek's hamstring injury and gave youngster Scott Carson his European debut in goal, Sami Hyypia returning to defence while the Liverpool manager opted for a two-man strike force with French Under-21 star Anthony Le Tallec also in the starting line-up alongside Milan Baros.

And Liverpool's response to confronting the star-studded Italians, who had veteran playmaker Pavel Nedved back following a head injury, was to go for the throat from the start.

Gerrard was in the thick of it, one thunderous tackle by the Liverpool skipper early on that stunned Emerson, set the standard.

His prompting got Steve Finnan in on the right, but his shot crashed into the side netting.

But from Liverpool's second corner, they stole into the lead.

Gerrard's ball soared in from the right, Luis Garcia flicked it on and Hyypia arrived on the far post to volley superbly inside the post leaving Gianluigi Buffon, arguably the world's best 'keeper, utterly stranded.

The ease with which the Finnish star struck his shot, and its' accuracy, is not what is usually expected from a defender, and he sat on the pitch a little bemused with his arms outstretched to celebrate his second goal of the season.

Liverpool had surprised the Italians with their pace and strength in these opening stages, but still the Serie A giants looked awesome in possession and moved the ball around smoothly, searching for the gap to punish their hosts.

But amazingly Liverpool went two ahead on 25 minutes, Anfield now in near hysteria.

Igor Biscan played the ball down the right, Le Tallec flicked it on and Luis Garcia surged onto the ball 25 yards out and hit a sensational dipping volley over the despairing arms of Buffon.

It was the new Spanish international's 10th goal of the season and fourth in Europe, underlining Benitez's view that he has become critical to Liverpool's balance in attack.

Juve almost hit straight back from the restart when Nedved set up Zlatan Ibrahimovic for a 20-yard shot that cannoned back off Carson's right-hand post.

And the Italians were straight back at Liverpool, and Alessandro Del Piero was played in only for Carson to make an outstanding save to his left.

Del Piero then had a header ruled out for offside, although TV replays showed it should have counted. Nothing, clearly, could be taken for granted at this stage.

Juventus sent on Gianluca Pessotto for Manuele Blasi at the break, with the intent of curtailing Gerrard's surging runs, and it worked.

Liverpool initially maintained their tempo of the first period, but they could not do it forever and Juventus were clearly intent on a more physical approach.

Juventus stepped up their search for a lifeline by taking off Del Piero and sending on David Trezeguet on the hour, with an increasing number of shots reaching Carson and greater midfield possession than they had managed at any stage previously.

And the goal the Italians had been threatening arrived on 63 minutes when Cannavaro appeared at the far post to meet a Zambrotta cross and head powerfully down and inside Carson's left-hand post with the young 'keeper looking at fault.

Liverpool then took off Baros and sent on Antonio Nunez, pushing Luis Garcia forward. Certainly something was needed to wrestle back control of the match from an increasingly confident Juve.

But it now seemed a question of whether Liverpool could hang onto their goal advantage.

Vladimir Smicer replaced the limping Le Tallec, Liverpool now under almost constant pressure as the Italians surged forward with clever inter-passing and movement.

Paolo Montero came on for the injured Zebina with 10 minutes left, and despite decent attempts to lift the siege by Nunez and Gerrard, Juventus were in command, had most of the possession and were searching desperately for the equaliser.

It did not come, but Liverpool must fear for their future in this competition next week in Turin.

[RedStorm]

Great result against a great opponent, especially with the likes of Carson, La Tellac, and Biscan starting the game. Juve should count themselves lucky that Morientes, Cisse, Hamann, or any other other starters didnt lace up their boots Tues night

[Highway Penguin]

I think with Moro we could have had a much stronger attack, obviously.

Not sure who I'd have dropped, as they were all very important in the game.

So, I can't say anything regarding, if's or had we's, you know?

[Sgt.Miller]

Let's keep the faith! It's only half over...

:rolleyes:

[Lance Knight]

if moro was playing the attack should be like this

Baros--------Moro
------Garcia-----

dope cisse, personally i think he is shitty

[Sgt.Miller]

I don't think that's quite fair. Djibril Cisse has been out for nearly the entire season, and it's a miracle that he has returned to the squad after what could have been a career ending injury. I think that we should be patient. Cisse will come around.

:cap:

[Highway Penguin]

I'd like to see him play for a bit tomorrow.

Not start, as he's been out for a long time, so that might hurt us more than help, and he might be injured again. So, maybe sub him in the last 10 minutes.

Miller, I wasn't saying it was over, simply that I don't want to make assumptions.

[Lance Knight]

actually i never liked him from even before he was injured. look at b4 when he and baros were the two main strikers, liverpool barely won a game, baros and him arent a good pair, but baros is better so the logical choice would be to drop him

[Mirko Mandic]

if moro was playing the attack should be like this

Baros--------Moro
------Garcia-----

dope cisse, personally i think he is shitty
well cisse has not played for well over 5 months duse to injury so how can we drop him let alone critisie him he fin good he scores alot in french league well did. and if he plays second half against juve in turin i think he will atleast presure buffon.

[Mirko Mandic]

actually i never liked him from even before he was injured. look at b4 when he and baros were the two main strikers, liverpool barely won a game, baros and him arent a good pair, but baros is better so the logical choice would be to drop him
what hey partnered up for like 1/2 months you have to give a partnership time to flourish remember morientes hasn't scored i belive more than 3 goals for liver pool since he arrived.

[Ivan7637]

0-0, Liverpool advances. Cisse played and came in the 80 or 81 minutes, overall i thought juve should have won but liverpool played solid defense. anyways good game and now i'm gonna watch Liverpool vs Chelsea, geez that might be extremely boring.

[RealMadrilismo]

Liverpool pass but still I feel they should of won today, Baros missed a shoot that should of went in. But then again nedved hit the post with a header.

[Mirko Mandic]

Juventus V Liverpool - Player Ratings

"PA"

LIVERPOOL

JERZY DUDEK – Did not have much to do on his return to the side after injury. Was well protected by his back-line, apart from when Fabio Cannavaro almost headed a winner in late on, the ball hitting the post. 7.

STEVE FINNAN – Another no-nonsense display from the Reds full-back. Was not afraid to clear the ball into the stands when necessary. Showed his commitment to cause when cautioned during closing stages. 7.

JAMIE CARRAGHER – England defender made a couple of important blocks, particularly during the first half. Was solid throughout, both in the air and on the floor. 7.

SAMI HYYPIA – Stand-in skipper lead Liverpool backline well, catching the Juve attack offside a lot during the first half and making some towering headers to clear set-play danger. 8.

DJIMI TRAORE – Let Zlatan Ibrahimovic get ahead of him for best chance of first half, and then lost Cannavaro at the far post, but got away with both mistakes. 6.

LUIS GARCIA – Quiet, but effective performance from the attacking midfielder. Mind was more on defensive side of match. 7.

ANTONIO NUNEZ – Found it difficult to get much going for Liverpool in the final third. Was given some rough treatment when he looked to find half a yard and pick out a pass. Replaced on the hour. 6.

IGOR BISCAN – Solid performance from the Croatian. Happy to sit in the middle of the park and wade in with some strong challenges to break up the flow of Juve’s game. 7.

XABI ALONSO – Booked midway through the first half, and had to tread carefully afterwards in the face of some rough treatment. Produced an honest display in a packed midfield on his full return from injury. 7.

JOHN ARNE RIISE – Had difficult job making progress down the left as he did during the first leg. Tried to pick out team-mates with searching balls rather than from surging runs. 6.

MILAN BAROS – Played up front on his own, and when did get clear shot on goal in second half, steered the ball inches wide. Worked hard enough, but really should have scored. 6.

SUBSTITUTES:

VLADIMIR SMICER (on for Nunez, 58) – Brought on with 30 minutes left to try and nullify positive start to second half by the Italians. Did job asked of him well enough. 6.

DJIBRIL CISSE (on for Baros, 75) – Given warm reception on his unexpected return from long injury lay-off after broken leg. Showed neat touch, but no real chance for strike on goal. 6.

ANTHONY LE TALLEC (on for Garcia, 85) – Young Frenchman sent on to run the ball into the corner during closing stages. 6.

[EASports]

Must be one the most boring matches i have seen vs juventus this morn
but Liverpool did play better. Baros missed a sitter. Zambrotta contiued
his whinging like normal. Can't wait for the semi vs Chelsea.

[Mirko Mandic]

i hate ppl that think english is boring i find italian football a bore.

[Highway Penguin]

I didn't get to see the match, due to my dumbass not being able to set up the time right to record the game....grrr.

[Ivan7637]

I didn't get to see the match, due to my dumbass not being able to set up the time right to record the game....grrr.

not much to see...

[EASports]

i hate ppl that think english is boring i find italian football a bore.

English play long ball soccer but it is interesting to watch (i think its skill lacking) but when the italians play it is boring because of the defensive
nature. Look at the champions league final last year AC vs Juve. Penalty shootout for a final - thats ***ked !

[Highway Penguin]

Not much to see?

Hm, well, due to a draw, and hearing that there some good chances. I think that I would have liked to watch it.

Anyways, I'm looking forward to the match against Chelsea.

[Ivan7637]

Not much to see?

Hm, well, due to a draw, and hearing that there some good chances. I think that I would have liked to watch it.

Anyways, I'm looking forward to the match against Chelsea.

it was a decent game with a few good shots on goal but overall the game was pretty boring especially in the first half. Baros had a wide open shot with only the keeper to beat and he shot it wide. not the best game but decent.Good luck Vs Chelsea, your gonna need it.

[Highway Penguin]

Yeah, Baros isn't too grand at 1v1s. He should work on that. As he gets quite a few.

I think we can do well against them. Xabi is back now. Hopefully Gerrard will be back for that match. If he is, I think we could rule them. ;)

[Ivan7637]

Yeah, Baros isn't too grand at 1v1s. He should work on that. As he gets quite a few.

I think we can do well against them. Xabi is back now. Hopefully Gerrard will be back for that match. If he is, I think we could rule them. ;)

Your gonna have a lot of Trouble dealing with Cole,Duff,Drogba,Lampard etc. They have some great players and there defense is fantastic. I just dont know if you guys can break there defense, but i know they can break yours so they will be the favorites.

[Highway Penguin]

I think we can. We broke down Juve's. And personally I think Juve are a better/equal side to Chelski. Their defences are both pretty strong, and their attack is also pretty equal. We were written off against Juve, and now we are against Chelski. Just wait and see.

;)

[Ivan7637]

I think we can. We broke down Juve's. And personally I think Juve are a better/equal side to Chelski. Their defences are both pretty strong, and their attack is also pretty equal. We were written off against Juve, and now we are against Chelski. Just wait and see.

;)

well i'm hoping you guys smoke them but they are very strong. I dont care who wins the Champions League as long is it isn't Chelsea, I hope to see Liverpool Vs AC Milan in the Final. Chelseas defense is a bit stronger then Juves in my opinion and Chelseas offense is much better that Juves aswell in my opinion so it's gonna be a lot tougher then Juve. i hope Liverpool WINS and Eliminates Chelsea! :thumbsup:

[nachi88]

i hate ppl that think english is boring i find italian football a bore.

I totally agree...

English football is definately much more exciting than serie a. Think of it this way, a 5th placed English team, without its only world class player ( gerrard) beats the top serie a team, and progresses to the semi's. Also, the serie a , inspite of being defensive , produces teams which conceed goals easily in the CL.

I have to admit, that EPL is at the moment the strongest league in europe, then comes serie a, then bundesliga and 4th is la liga.

Also, do not understand why people think chelsea vs liverpool would be boring... if people can sit through inter vs ac ( 2003 semifinal) and ac vs juve 2003 final, without falling to sleep , they'll surely enjoy this one.

[kenodoki]

Well done to Liverpool for putting up a fantastic performance against the odds and against one of the best teams in the world. Lets hope Newcastle make it a hattrick of semi finalists!

I actually think the Chelsea-Liverpool game will be quite exciting

[benherbert]

hypia was solid

[Lance Knight]

come on liverpool u can do it chelsea going down next game

[Sgt.Miller]

I'm blood thirst for revenge. I hope we demolish Chelsea.

I HATE CHELSEA.

:bloody:

[Chivu]

From a Roma fan, CONGRATS ON BEATING JUVE!!


rip chelski up next round!

[Mirko Mandic]

Liverpool's eagerly anticipated Champions League semi-final clash with Chelsea comes 40 years since the two club's first met in the last four of a major cup competition.

The year was 1965 and Bill Shankly's Reds were on their way to an historic first FA Cup triumph. The setting was Villa Park and, like today, the Londoners were strong favourites to reach the final.

But as Liverpoolfc.tv now recall in part five of our commemorative series charting the famous FA Cup triumph of 1965 the men from Anfield defied the doubters to win through.

Here's hoping for a repeat result over the forthcoming two legs!

[Mirko Mandic]

ALONSO: WE HAVE TO STOP LAMPARD


Paul Eaton 26 April 2005
Xabi Alonso has pledged to stop Frank Lampard bossing the midfield during tomorrow night's Champions League semi-final first leg.
Alonso is full of respect for the England midfielder and insists Liverpool's European dreams for this season could come to an end if Lampard isn't watched throughout the tie.

Ironically, it was Lampard who cut Alonso's season short with a tackle which broke his ankle at Anfield on New Year's Day, but the Spaniard holds no grudges and is looking forward to facing the Chelsea midfielder at Stamford Bridge.

He said: "Frank Lampard is having a great season at Chelsea so it's important we stop him playing well. He has a wonderful ability to break forward quickly from midfield, scoring and making many goals for his team.

"To stop him we need to look after the ball when we are in possession and win as many loose balls in midfield as we can.

"I will be trying to make sure Lampard doesn't get control of the ball too much. When he does get hold of it I will make life as uncomfortable for him as I possibly can. If we don't do that in the middle of the pitch then we know he can hurt us.

"Fortunately, we have a player in the same mould as Lampard, in the shape of Steven Gerrard. At the moment I can't say who is best out of Gerrard and Lampard, but one thing is for sure, they are two of the best players in the world. England are lucky to have them."

http://liverpoolfc.tv/images4/070405-xabi_120_03.jpg

[Mirko Mandic]

SAMI SETTING HIS SIGHTS ON TURKISH DELIGHT
Mark Platt 26 April 2005
Sami Hyypia is determined not to let the chance of playing in a Champions League Final pass him by.
The veteran defender is just two games away from realising a long held dream and he believes Liverpool have a great chance of reaching the showpiece event of European football in Istanbul on May 25.

But before plans can be made for a trip to Turkey there is the small matter of overcoming Chelsea in the semi-final.

The Reds go into the much-awaited first leg clash on the back of a demoralising defeat at Crystal Palace and the big Finn has issued a warning to his team-mates that everyone of the team must be up for the challenge that awaits them at Stamford Bridge.

"It's a massive game on Wednesday and we'll have to be up for it," says Hyypia.

"Nobody should need motivation. This is the Champions League and there's a great chance to reach the final.

"I've never been this far before and I want to take it because it may be my last chance. I'm not a young player any more. There's an opportunity which I don't want to let pass me by.

"It will be tough but I think we have a great chance."

[Lance Knight]

Wednesday, April 27, 2005

Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool: FT Report

PA

Chelsea paid the price for some woeful finishing and must now fight for place in the final of the Champions League as the first leg at home to Liverpool ended goalless.

Jose Mourinho may claim to be "special" but, at least until next week's return Champions League encounter, Rafael Benitez has proved his equal on the European stage.


Mourinho, last year's Champions League winner with Porto, had joked that his ego has expanded this season amid further domestic success with Chelsea.

However, Benitez, who claimed last season's UEFA Cup trophy with Valencia, also has a rich European pedigree.

And even amid an all-English Champions League semi-final first leg at Stamford Bridge, there was enough Spanish nous and bravado to match the Portuguese extravagance and showmanship.

For even though Liverpool had lost all three previous meetings with Chelsea this season - twice in the league and once in the Carling Cup final - they still bridged the 31-point Premiership gulf.

Of course, it could all change at Anfield. After all, Chelsea were held to a goalless draw in their Carling Cup semi-final first leg by Manchester United, and they still prevailed.

However, while Frank Lampard spurned one clear chance, Chelsea were indebted to goalkeeper Petr Cech for saving them from defeat with two superb reaction saves.

It was still by no means a classic. Far from it, in fact. But as Liverpool fans taunted "you've got no history", their team at least proved they could still have a future.

Although the Reds have been frustratingly inconsistent this season, losing at Crystal Palace just four days earlier, when Europe calls - even in London - they have so far risen to the occasion.

As for Chelsea, they may have already won the Carling Cup and be poised for success in the Barclays Premiership, but the Champions League is proving a rather tougher nut to crack.

There was certainly an element of Continental caution in the air at Stamford Bridge, with Didier Drogba and Milan Baros respectively playing up front on their own.

With Arjen Robben initially kept on the bench and Damien Duff injured, Chelsea lacked natural width and while Drogba still managed to muscle his way through the centre, he dragged his shot wide.

Liverpool, meanwhile, looked to exploit Glen Johnson's defensive weaknesses and John-Arne Riise was pushed well forward as a result.

Indeed, when the Norway international skipped past Ricardo Carvalho and John Terry, he was only foiled by Cech's first vital reaction save.

Cech was even more inspired just before half-time when he produced an exceptional one-handed save at full stretch to tip Baros' header around the post from Steven Gerrard's cross.

In between, Chelsea threatened themselves, albeit rather more ponderously than normal and they lacked their usual sharpness on the counter-attack.

When William Gallas provided some much-needed width, his deep cross was headed down by Joe Cole and Lampard swivelled six yards out but promptly blazed his half-volley over the bar.

Drogba headed over the top, with Terry mishitting an effort wide, but a Liverpool defence marshalled by the excellent Jamie Carragher were holding firm.

Indeed, while Cole jinked round two defenders after the restart, Sami Hyypia recovered just in time to stop him in his tracks.

It was therefore no surprise to see Robben emerge from the bench with 58 minutes gone to replace Tiago.

The Dutch winger was quickly in the thick of the action, although Benitez responded by throwing on Djibril Cisse for Baros and the Frenchman immediately rifled a shot over the crossbar.

Liverpool were comfortably holding their own and Mourinho turned to Mateja Kezman, replacing Cole.

It made little difference. Indeed, his main impact came in being booked within a minute of his arrival for a needless foul on Djimi Traore, as the frustration levels grew in the Chelsea ranks.

Xabi Alonso still paid a heavy price for a tackle from behind on Gudjohnsen in the closing stages, ruling him out of the second leg at Anfield.

Chelsea, however, now face a real test of their progress under Mourinho. The treble is still potentially on but Liverpool in the Champions League are clearly a different prospect than in the Premiership.

[nachi88]

good chance that liverpool go through... but xavi alonso's booking, by which he will miss next match was really unnecessary

[Mirko Mandic]

good chance that liverpool go through... but xavi alonso's booking, by which he will miss next match was really unnecessary
has we got biscan lol and STEVIE BLUE GERRARD so we covered i feel....
garcia double wooooo..

[Mirko Mandic]

has we got biscan lol and STEVIE BLUE GERRARD so we covered i feel....
garcia double wooooo..
http://www.squarefootball.net/article/article.asp?aid=1951

link to player ratings pretty damn good.

[Lance Knight]

Monday, May 2, 2005

Robben, Duff doubts for semi-final


Winger Arjen Robben is a major doubt for Chelsea's Champions League semi-final second leg tie at Anfield on Tuesday.
And while Damien Duff started today's training session at Anfield, he soon walked off the pitch, raising fears over his ability to return after injury.


That could open the way for Joe Cole to be recalled to the side, but Mourinho was not giving too much away about his plans - apart from admitting his continued doubts over Robben and Duff.

Asked whether Liverpool would miss the suspended Xabi Alonso, he replied: 'They'll miss him no more than we miss Robben or Duff in other matches and maybe tomorrow again.

'Alonso is a very good player, of course, but they have Igor Biscan, Steven Gerrard, Dietmar Hamann and Harry Kewell.

'They have a lot of solutions. For us, it's more difficult as we only have two wingers. If we lose one, we are in trouble. If we lose two, then it's a problem that you cannot solve.'

Mourinho played down reports of an internal rift over the Dutchman's ankle injury, which has persisted for the past three months, but admitted the team would miss him if he is ruled out.

'It's a very difficult moment for him. He wants to play and help the team to arrive at an important moment. He's been very important for us all season,' he said.

'But now, at the decisive moments, he's not involved. He didn't play in the Carling Cup final, he didn't play at Bolton and, although we don't know, maybe he can't play tomorrow either.

'Everyone supports him though. He's ready to risk a little bit or play not at the maximum of his quality. He's always in my first plans, but sometimes it's impossible.'

While Cole started today's session among the 'reserves', he may return if Duff and Robben are both ruled out, while Geremi will also be hoping to keep his place at right-back ahead of Glen Johnson.

While Jiri Jarosik is ineligible for Champions League duty, Scott Parker, Wayne Bridge and Paulo Ferreira are all long-term absentees.

[Lance Knight]

Monday, May 2, 2005

Carragher: 'All pressure on Chelsea'


LIVERPOOL, England, May 2 (Reuters) - Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher believes Chelsea will feel the pressure on Tuesday when the Londoners attempt to book a place in the Champions League final.

Carragher: Ready for the fight. (PhilCole/GettyImages)

Carragher says his side can go into the semi-final second leg at Anfield in a relaxed mood because the newly-crowned Premier League champions have most to lose. The first leg ended in a 0-0 draw.


'All the pressure is on Chelsea,' he told reporters on Monday. 'They have spent a lot of money and expect to succeed in this competition.

'Don't forget their last manager (Claudio Ranieri) got sacked for only getting to the semi-final of the Champions League (last year).

'We have exceeded expectations just getting here and the only pressure on us is the pressure we are putting on ourselves as players,' said Carragher.

'You don't know when you will get to this stage of the competition again and we want to get to the final.'

Carragher admits Chelsea, who beat Liverpool twice in the Premier League and also in the League Cup final, have been the better side this season but says his team can prosper on Tuesday.

'We have respect for what they have achieved. They have won the Premiership and that's a difficult thing to do but we can stop them in their tracks,' he said.

'Chelsea were very strong favourites before the first leg but we got a good result and now they are only slight favourites. We have bridged the gap.'

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez added to the mind games by claiming Chelsea would have been deemed to have failed if they did not reach the Istanbul final.

'We must send our congratulations to Chelsea, the manager, their players, the club and supporters and then say sorry about the next competition as we will win,' said Benitez.

'If you talk about the money they have spent on their team then they have more to lose than us.

'But if you talk about where we are playing, at Anfield, with the support we have, the tie is now just 50/50.'

Benitez said England international Steven Gerrard, who has been linked with a move to Chelsea, would be his most important player.

'Steven Gerrard is the key player for us. He is a fantastic player and he can change the game,' he said.

AC Milan or PSV Eindhoven will meet the winners in the Champions League final on May 25.

[Lance Knight]

Monday, May 2, 2005

Carragher: 'All pressure on Chelsea'


LIVERPOOL, England, May 2 (Reuters) - Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher believes Chelsea will feel the pressure on Tuesday when the Londoners attempt to book a place in the Champions League final.



Carragher says his side can go into the semi-final second leg at Anfield in a relaxed mood because the newly-crowned Premier League champions have most to lose. The first leg ended in a 0-0 draw.


'All the pressure is on Chelsea,' he told reporters on Monday. 'They have spent a lot of money and expect to succeed in this competition.

'Don't forget their last manager (Claudio Ranieri) got sacked for only getting to the semi-final of the Champions League (last year).

'We have exceeded expectations just getting here and the only pressure on us is the pressure we are putting on ourselves as players,' said Carragher.

'You don't know when you will get to this stage of the competition again and we want to get to the final.'

Carragher admits Chelsea, who beat Liverpool twice in the Premier League and also in the League Cup final, have been the better side this season but says his team can prosper on Tuesday.

'We have respect for what they have achieved. They have won the Premiership and that's a difficult thing to do but we can stop them in their tracks,' he said.

'Chelsea were very strong favourites before the first leg but we got a good result and now they are only slight favourites. We have bridged the gap.'

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez added to the mind games by claiming Chelsea would have been deemed to have failed if they did not reach the Istanbul final.

'We must send our congratulations to Chelsea, the manager, their players, the club and supporters and then say sorry about the next competition as we will win,' said Benitez.

'If you talk about the money they have spent on their team then they have more to lose than us.

'But if you talk about where we are playing, at Anfield, with the support we have, the tie is now just 50/50.'

Benitez said England international Steven Gerrard, who has been linked with a move to Chelsea, would be his most important player.

'Steven Gerrard is the key player for us. He is a fantastic player and he can change the game,' he said.

AC Milan or PSV Eindhoven will meet the winners in the Champions League final on May 25.

[Lance Knight]

Sunday, May 1, 2005

Gerrard targets career defining final


Steven Gerrard has warned Chelsea that Liverpool are determined to ruin the Blues' championship celebrations and set up 'the biggest night' of his life.


The Liverpool star believes captaining the club in the Champions League final next month would be the pinnacle of his career.


And with the all-English semi-final against the new Premiership champions delicately poised at 0-0 going into Tuesday's crunch second leg, Gerrard claims his underdog side can confound the experts and reach the Istanbul final on May 25.

Gerrard said: 'This second leg is without doubt the biggest game of my life and I am sure it's the same for every other player here.

'At the beginning of the tournament we were underdogs and everyone expected us to go out in the first round, so the fact that we are now so close to the final goes to show just how well the manager and all the boys have done.

'I think it has surprised everyone, but we are not in it just to make the numbers up. We are in it to win it so we are going to keep fighting.

'Captaining Liverpool in the final would be the biggest day of my life, as simple as that.'

Gerrard told official club website www.liverpoolfc.tv: 'Everyone here knows the gap between ourselves and Chelsea, and also Arsenal and Manchester United come to mention it, is not as great as people make out.

'It's just the inconsistency in the league that we have to sort out.

'And I don't think people have given us the credit we deserve after the first leg.

'We would have taken that result at Chelsea before the game and if someone had offered us this scenario before the start of the season - where we only had to beat Chelsea at home to reach the European Cup final--then we would have snatched their hands off. It's a great opportunity.'

He is also hoping the team progress to ensure Xabi Alonso - suspended for Tuesday's match - plays again in this season's Champions League.

'Losing Xabi Alonso from the second leg is a massive blow. He is a great team player and one of the best passers of a ball in Europe. Any side would miss him,' Gerrard added.

'Fortunately we have got Didi Hamann back fit and that gives the manager another option. Everyone is sad for Xabi though and hopefully we can beat Chelsea and give him the opportunity to play in the final.'

[Lance Knight]

Saturday, April 30, 2005

Benitez voices frustration over Alonso


Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has urged Eidur Gudjohnsen to 'say something' about the incident which saw Xabi Alonso booked and suspended for Tuesday's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea.
Benitez also revealed his frustration at UEFA regulations denying Alonso the right to appeal against the yellow card he received towards the end of the first leg at Stamford Bridge last week.


Alonso, 23, was cautioned for a foul on Blues striker Gudjohnsen, although there only appeared to minimal contact from the former Real Sociedad player, who only recently returned from an ankle injury.

With the tie delicately poised at 0-0, Benitez will again be without the key midfielder as he attempts to guide his side to the Istanbul final on May 25, with AC Milan the likely opponents.

It has been suggested Gudjohnsen possibly conned French referee Alain Sars into booking Alonso by over-reacting to a challenge, and then goaded the Spain midfielder for missing the second leg.

Gudjohnsen has denied the accusation, insisting: 'I would never deliberately try to get another player booked.'

However, the Iceland international is set to received a hostile reception from the Kop on Tuesday, and Benitez believes the onus is on the striker to talk about the controversial booking.

Benitez said: 'As for the situation over the incident, it is a question now for Gudjohnsen to say something.'

Benitez has criticised UEFA's disciplinary system that does not allow for appeals over cautions.

Alonso now has three cautions in this season's competition and is ruled out on Tuesday, having pleaded with the referee to change his decision before Benitez also unsuccessfully tried to plea for clemency, but to no avail.

UEFA then told Liverpool only in cases of mistaken identity was an appeal possible. Benitez wants an overhaul of the regulations, adding: 'I think there should be an appeal against yellow cards. If you can use the video for something else to clear up other situations why not for a yellow card.

'You are playing for trophies, a lot of money and the futures of a lot of people. If the video can prove something then it should be used.

'Now we know we cannot change the situation, but after watching the TV we all know it was not a yellow card, for sure.

'Maybe in the future it is necessary to change the rules, because you cannot appeal. Now we must play without Xabi.

'If you can use a video after the game for certain things, like elbows, then you should be able to use it for other things like wrong cards.

'You see players fighting, or some aggression, things can be changed if it is clear.'

But Benitez is confident of getting the right result on Tuesday, adding: 'The only good thing now is that he can play in the final.

'Now with Dietmar Hamann back from injury we have a situation where we would have Didi (Hamann), (Steven) Gerrard, Alonso and (Igor) Biscan all available for the final, which is a good choice for me.'

Benitez also had strong words for the Football Association as they agonise over whether they should nominate Liverpool to enter the Champions League next season as possible holders, even if they finish outside the top four in the Barclays Premiership.

He added: 'The FA has a big problem, normally if you win a trophy then common sense says that you must defend it next season.

'They are waiting for a solution to appear because it is so difficult for them to make a decision.

'There is no guarantee we will be in the Champions League next season even if we do win it, I know. It seems to be a special rule!

'I think that common sense is the real solution. All we can do is try to beat Chelsea and win the final. And yes, I think then we should be allowed into the competition next season.

'There was a precedent in Spain, and I always say you must use common sense, if you win a trophy you must be allowed to defend it.

'I do not remember there being too much disagreement in Spain when Real Madrid won the trophy and were nominated ahead of Real Zaragoza, who were fourth.

'It was Real Madrid, it was normal. To defend the name of your country in Europe, if Real Madrid were in Europe at the end then you know they can win the trophy.

'I am sure Zaragoza were disappointed, but I say again, it was the normal decision to make.'

[Lance Knight]

Thursday, April 28, 2005

Anfield holds no fear for Mourinho


Jose Mourinho shrugged off the prospect of a hostile reception at Anfield as he insisted Chelsea would follow their Carling Cup blueprint to reach the Champions League final.

Mourinho was barracked by hundreds of Liverpool fans during last night's goalless draw at Stamford Bridge in the semi-final first-leg tie.


This followed his unwise 'silence' gesture in placing his finger to his lips after Chelsea scored against Liverpool in their Carling Cup final triumph in Cardiff.

The Chelsea boss later apologised for his actions, insisting that he meant to direct his gesture at the media rather than the Liverpool fans.

And he insisted the Kop would be better off encouraging their team at Anfield next Tuesday, rather than barracking him.

'I think they have to concentrate on supporting their team to reach the final. What they do to me doesn't interfere in the game,' he declared. 'They can shout and say this or that but I'll just sit there and do my job. They should concentrate on helping their team - as their team will need that support.

'With a good referee, who doesn't feel the pressure, it's enjoyable to play in fantastic places like Anfield.'

Even though Liverpool held Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, Mourinho remains supremely confident that the Blues will reach the final, just as they did in the Carling Cup.

'In the Carling Cup semi-final, we drew 0-0 at home to Manchester United but didn't panic and beat them away from home,' he insisted.

'Last season, when I was at Porto, it was 0-0 in the semi-final at home to Deportivo and we beat them in La Coruna. It's 0-0 here so I trust we can do it again.'

Xabi Alonso is ruled out through suspension after picking up his third booking of the competition and, while Dietmar Hamann may return from injury, the Spanish playmaker will be missed.

He was certainly influential at Stamford Bridge, with Liverpool holding their own in a match which only sporadically came to life.

Chelsea had the best chance, with Frank Lampard blazing a half-volley over the bar from close-range after Joe Cole had flicked on William Gallas' cross.

However, they were still indebted to keeper Petr Cech for two excellent saves, firstly to block an effort by John Arne Riise and then to acrobatically tip a header from Milan Baros around the post.

There was patently little excitement in the second-half, with Jamie Carragher inspiring a resolute Liverpool defence, and it was left to Mourinho to indulge in mind-games after the final whistle.

'I feel there's more pressure for them and less pressure for us. I think 99.9 per cent of Liverpool people and fans think they are in the final - but they're not,' he declared.

'It's like an FA Cup game, where you play one leg away from home, but I like that situation very much as I think we can score goals and get a result.

'It will be a completely different game for them at Anfield. It's one thing to play for a zero-zero and it's another thing to play for a victory. I'm very confident that we're going to the final.'

Rafael Benitez refused to be drawn into such bold predictions, preferring to place himself among the cautious minority.

'I have a lot of confidence but we need to play a good game as we know they are a good team and we must be careful,' he stressed.

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard nevertheless told Sky Sports: 'Ideally we would have liked to nick a goal but hopefully our fans will lift the roof off in the second leg.

'This was a good result because they've got world class players. It is a good situation. We have very good supporters, they will be with us at Anfield and we need to win.'

[Lance Knight]

Sunday, May 1, 2005

Uefa boss raises hopes on Merseyside


UEFA president Lennart Johansson today paved the way for both Everton and Liverpool to compete in next season's Champions League.
Johansson claims 'the door is open' for Liverpool should they win the European Cup in May but finish outside the top four in the Barclays Premiership.


UEFA has previously insisted their rules are clear, that only four teams from any one country can go forward to play in the Champions League.

With Everton set to clinch the coveted fourth spot, and with Liverpool still in with a chance of lifting the Champions League trophy, UEFA have told the Football Association to decide who should join Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United in next season's tournament.

A precedent was set five years ago when Real Madrid won the Champions League, but only finished fifth in the Primera Liga, resulting in the Spanish football authorities opting for the `Galacticos' ahead of Real Zaragoza, who had finished fourth.

Remarkably, Johansson could not recall that incident, but insists England could have five teams in next season's Champions League if UEFA's executive committee allow Liverpool to defend the trophy should they win it, but finish outside the top four.

'This is a very demanding case, but it doesn't mean it cannot be discussed,' said Johansson on BBC Radio 5 Live's Sportsweek programme.

'They [Liverpool] are welcome with their point of view. They can make any proposal and we will deal with it and we will give them a quick answer.

'The door is always open. We are there to serve football and not just dictate, so they are welcome to make a request if the situation occurs.

'If there is a possibility to make an exception for the winner of the Champions League then there could be an additional place.

'It is for the executive committee to decide and anything can be granted if they decide to go to the member associations and ask for a change in the regulations.

'But it would be unfair on Everton who have played the whole season and qualified via fourth place to then exclude them.'

Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry refused to be drawn on the issue, although he did concede Johansson's comments were encouraging.

'I've heard Mr Johansson's positive words, but it's not an issue that's a live debate at this stage,' said Parry.

'There's a long way to go in both competitions and we are still in contention for fourth place and playing for that.

'As far as the Champions League is concerned, with a big game against Chelsea still to come, it's very disrespectful to our opponents to speculate on what may or may not happen beyond that.

'It's an intriguing possibility, but at this moment in time it's still a theoretical possibility. If and when the time comes, that is when we will express a view.'

Johansson, though, has stated there will be a tightening of the rules for next season to ensure such an eventuality can be adequately dealt with in the future.

'We will make it more clear than we have before as to what is valid because it will happen again and again,' added Johansson.

'In my opinion the rule is already there, but if there are exceptions to the rule then we have to clarify the situation and make a clear statement about it.'

Parry believes UEFA should have foreseen such a dilemma, and feels it is wrong they have placed the onus on the FA to resolve the thorny issue.

'It is the responsibility of UEFA, after all it is their competition and it's for them to address what should happen to the winner,' insisted Parry.

'I don't think it is appropriate that national associations should be left with such extraordinarily difficult decisions.

'There is clearly an element of inconsistency within the rules. On the one hand there is a desire for the champions to participate, but equally a very clear rule that says no country can have more than four participants.

'It works fine, providing the champions always finish within the top four, which I guess they generally do.

'It makes sense going forwards that this sort of uncertainty doesn't arise again. It should be clearly spelled out.

'It shouldn't be left to discretion and unseemly arguments as to who is more worthy. It should be clear from the outset.

'I think the principle of competition winners being allowed to defend is perfectly sound, but again that should be within the rules of the organisers of the competition.'

[moro19]

We've Done It!!! We're In The Final!!!

[Ivan7637]

We've Done It!!! We're In The Final!!!

YES!! Not the most entertaining game but a deserved win! I would like to thank liverpool for eliminating Chelsea(money) out of the champions league and making my day. :D

by the way your defense was sweet, chelsea couldn't use their usual attack so they had to use high ball but that didn't work either! YEAH LIVERPOOL!

Now go and beat AC MILAN!!!!!!!!

[RaulMadrid7]

YES!! Not the most entertaining game but a deserved win! I would like to thank liverpool for eliminating Chelsea(money) out of the champions league and making my day. :D

by the way your defense was sweet, chelsea couldn't use their usual attack so they had to use high ball but that didn't work either! YEAH LIVERPOOL!

Now go and beat AC MILAN!!!!!!!!

I wouldn't count on that. AC Milan > Liverpool.

But as ussual, IMPOSSIBLE IS NOTHING

[nachi88]

YES!! Not the most entertaining game but a deserved win! I would like to thank liverpool for eliminating Chelsea(money) out of the champions league and making my day. :D

by the way your defense was sweet, chelsea couldn't use their usual attack so they had to use high ball but that didn't work either! YEAH LIVERPOOL!

Now go and beat AC MILAN!!!!!!!!

my thoughts too


:)

[RealMadrilismo]

Im happy liverpool are in the final! My prediction is coming together. I said Liverpool Vs PSV at the Final. My prediction is half right so far... tomorrow PSV will win somehow... lol

[MarieL]

I haven't watched a single Liverpool game this season. What the hell is going on? Liverpool in the CL final... Didn't see that one coming.

[TsubasaPT]

Liverpool didn't go to the European Cup final longer than Benfica :ronaldo:

[RealMadrilismo]

Liverpool didn't go to the European Cup final longer than Benfica :ronaldo:

liverpool has 4 champions league instead of 2 :ronaldo:

and real madrid has 9 :ronaldo: :ronaldo: :ronaldo:

[Lance Knight]

yea baby we did it,

[RonaldoD08]

Great...

Liverpool will be back to winning ways this year...:D

[Mirko Mandic]

YES!! Not the most entertaining game but a deserved win! I would like to thank liverpool for eliminating Chelsea(money) out of the champions league and making my day. :D

by the way your defense was sweet, chelsea couldn't use their usual attack so they had to use high ball but that didn't work either! YEAH LIVERPOOL!

Now go and beat AC MILAN!!!!!!!!
who needs italian defence when u have the reds (CARRA U IS A GOD 2)

[Lance Knight]

Monday, May 9, 2005

Moyes wants Reds in Champs Lge


Everton manager David Moyes believes Merseyside rivals Liverpool 'should have the opportunity' to contest the Champions League next season if they win it this month, after the Toffees beat them to the last qualification spot.
Liverpool's 3-1 defeat by Arsenal on Sunday meant they cannot displace Everton from fourth place in the Premiership as the Reds remain six points behind their city rivals but only have one league game left this season.


Rafael Benitez's side then have the Champions League final against AC Milan on May 25, but their fifth-placed finish means they will not have the chance to qualify for Europe's finest club competition next season.

The Football Association last week confirmed Liverpool would not have the chance to defend their trophy if they won in Istanbul but finished outside the top four in the Premiership.

Moyes said he was not concerned by the possibility of his side being denied the chance of qualifying for the Champions League.

He said: 'I didn't have any fears because I have trust in the people at the FA, I had a lot of belief in the system.

'The team who wins the Champions League should have the opportunity to contest it if they don't get through the following season.

'That isn't necessarily the rules of this country. If that had happened and Liverpool had got ahead of Everton there would have been an uproar, it would have been a disgrace and could have caused problems in our city.

'As it is Liverpool are there. I hope they will go on to win the Champions League but there's no denying Everton are the best team in the city this season.'

After a mid-season dip in form, Everton then ground out results to finish the season in form.

Moyes added: 'It feels great. It's been a long, hard season but it's been terrific getting there and I'm delighted.

'I wanted to stay there but I did feel Liverpool and Bolton were pushing us hard. I always felt we were under pressure.

'We never said we had the best players. It's a massive achievement for Everton Football Club.

'We dropped very few points in the first half of the season, we slipped up and also lost Thomas Gravesen. It took time to get it sorted.'

[Lance Knight]

Monday, May 9, 2005

Liverpool given Champs League hope


The calls for Liverpool to be allowed to defend the Champions League if they win the trophy in Istanbul have received massive support from UEFA's president and a Liverpool legend.

UEFA president Lennart Johansson has repeated his views of a couple of weeks ago when he stated today that a way could be found for Liverpool to be allowed back into next season's tournament as holders, despite not qualifying through the Premiership.

Johansson made that statement initially before the semi-final second leg with Chelsea, which saw Liverpool qualify for the May 25 final against AC Milan.

But further comments from UEFA's director of communications William Gaillard threw doubt over the prospect.

But now Johansson has advised the English FA to put an appeal in writing and it will be favourably received.

He told Sky Sports News: 'Let's deal with it when we know the facts after the final of the Champions League.

'And then see to it that we are crystal-clear that the champion must always be given the opportunity to defend the title.'

Johansson's views came after former Liverpool legend John Toshack joined the clamour for the Anfield club to be allowed to defend the Champions League crown if they win the final.

Toshack, and a Kop hero in Bill Shankly's days and now manager of Wales, insists any team should be allowed to defend a trophy regardless of where they finish in the Premier League.

Liverpool can now not finish in the top four spots which have already been decreed as qualifications for next season's Champions League - Everton claiming the final fourth place yesterday by virtue of the Anfield club's defeat at Arsenal.

Toshack was at the match to see his old club's failure and agreed that the Premiership's top four should without question go into next season's top European tournament.

He said: 'If you decide before the competition starts and you make the rules that the top four go into the Champions League, then that should be the case.

'But Liverpool, if they win the trophy, should certainly go back into it as holders, no question.'

UEFA have confirmed they will discuss the situation at their next meeting in Manchester in June.

But by then if Liverpool do manage to beat AC Milan in Istanbul on May 25, there will be uproar in the red half of Merseyside, with the Reds by then loudly claiming their right to be admitted as holders, a rule which at present does not exist in UEFA's regulations.

Johansson added: 'We should see to it in the future that we have rules and regulations that are understandable from the very beginning. In the view of the reactions now, I understand the champions like to defend their title.

'If the English FA would like to do so, they should make a proposal that would mean extending the number of teams from England in the Champions League next time from four to five.

'They cannot just explain their feelings, they should sit down and write a letter to the UEFA executive committee with a request to extend the number of teams from England from four to five.'

It is believed that pressure has been brought on UEFA from sponsors and TV companies not to allow a situation in which a club as big worldwide as Liverpool are excluded next season.

It's a view supported by Toshack, who, in a Sky Sports interview, added: 'Liverpool will be disappointed themselves about this failure to get into the Champions League through the league.

'Maybe this is a time for UEFA to make a decision. The winners should always be able to defend their title.

'If you start saying at the beginning of the season that the top four go in, then that's what you must do. But I still believe the champions should be allowed to defend the trophy.

'I can remember the situation in Spain when I was working there that Real Madrid won the Champions League and finished fifth and the Spanish FA left out Real Zaragoza who had finished fourth and not too much was said about it.'

One omen in Liverpool's favour come May 25 is the fact that they will be allowed to wear their all-red kit in Istanbul. Milan will play in white.

In every one of Liverpool's four previous winning European Cup Finals, their opponents have worn white and the Anfield men their traditional all-red kit. The final they lost in Brussels 20 years ago, saw Juventus wearing black and white stripes.

The date of the final means that skipper Steven Gerrard and defender Jamie Carragher will not be able to join up with the England party heading for their two games in the USA.

England fly out to the States the day after Liverpool's final, although the FA would probably like the pair to join up with the party later, to play in the second game on May 31 against Columbia.

But Liverpool would want their two stars to take part in the likely homecoming tour of the city on May 29 rather than join the England party.

[Juventus.Elite9]

I just hope Liverpool plays Baros the entire match, I think both him and Garcia are gonna have to work magic to win this final against AC Milan.

[Lance Knight]

yea cisse is shit

[Lance Knight]

Tuesday, May 10, 2005

FA boost for Liverpool Euro hopes


The Football Association have vowed to carry on the fight for Liverpool to be allowed to defend the Champions League title if they beat AC Milan and win the trophy in Istanbul.
UEFA president Lennart Johansson yesterday again hinted that a way could be found for the Reds to be allowed back into next season's tournament as holders, despite not qualifying through the Barclays Premiership.


He urged the FA to make a written appeal to Europe's top brass after stating 'the champion must always be given the opportunity to defend the title'.

FA communications director Adrian Bevington responded by telling the Press Association: 'We have been very proactive on this matter.

'In the past three weeks [chief executive] Brian Barwick, [chairman] Geoff Thompson and other senior FA figures have spoken to [UEFA chief executive] Lars-Christer Olsson and Lennart Johansson on this matter, on more than one occasion.

'We have already submitted a written request to have an additional place for Liverpool should they win the Champions League.

'If Mr Johansson has said we should put something in writing to the UEFA executive committee then we are happy to send another letter once again requesting an additional place for Liverpool should they - as we all hope they do - win the Champions League in Istanbul.'

Johansson offered his support to Liverpool before the semi-final second leg with Chelsea, which saw the Merseysiders qualify for the May 25 final.

But further comments from UEFA's director of communications William Gaillard threw doubt over the prospect.

However, Johansson yesterday told Sky Sports News: 'Let's deal with it when we know the facts after the final of the Champions League.

'And then see to it that we are crystal-clear that the champion must always be given the opportunity to defend the title.

'If the English FA would like to do so, they should make a proposal that would mean extending the number of teams from England in the Champions League next time from four to five.

'They cannot just explain their feelings, they should sit down and write a letter to the UEFA executive committee with a request to extend the number of teams from England from four to five.'

It is believed that pressure has been brought on UEFA from sponsors and TV companies not to allow a situation in which a club as big worldwide as Liverpool are excluded next season.

[RealMadrilismo]

yea cisse is shit

he mad fast man, plus he just came out of a injury... he needs time.

[luxor]

LIVERPOOL vs MILAN - Room for Rent-CL2005 Final Match in TR
Still looking for a place to stay in Istanbul for Liverpool vs Milan Final match?
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[Lance Knight]

fast is not good without skill

[RealMadrilismo]

fast is not good without skill

who said he got no skill? Last game he played against Aston Villa he scored 2 goals and Liverpool won the game. That was the last game of the EPL this season. He has tons of skill.

[Lance Knight]

yea but look at the game against chelsea, that was one game he played good, what happen to the others

[RealMadrilismo]

yea but look at the game against chelsea, that was one game he played good, what happen to the others

he played chelsea CL match for like 10 mins and he just got out of a big injury he is not 100% fit. After the most recent game against Aston Villa he was more fit. We probably see him in the starting 11 against Milan.

[nigelthesausage]

8 x cat1 tickets for sale 4 in west lower and 4 in east lower

phone or text on 07815873711

[Lance Knight]

he played chelsea CL match for like 10 mins and he just got out of a big injury he is not 100% fit. After the most recent game against Aston Villa he was more fit. We probably see him in the starting 11 against Milan.
i hope not

[RealMadrilismo]

i hope not

lol fine everyone has their opinion

[Lance Knight]

yea i guess so, but he sure aint world class, he is only good enought to sit on the bench

[michaelz]

i hope if liverpool wins, they win wif attacking fair and not those kind of sit-and-wait kinda of tactics. I'm still quite disappointed after juve lost to them as they realli played a shut-out style of football. Please benitez, do wat u seem so gd at valencia. I believe liverpool has gd attacking players as well.

[Aryan]

i hope if liverpool wins, they win wif attacking fair and not those kind of sit-and-wait kinda of tactics. I'm still quite disappointed after juve lost to them as they realli played a shut-out style of football. Please benitez, do wat u seem so gd at valencia. I believe liverpool has gd attacking players as well.
I agree. I hope we will watch FOOTBALL not some tactical, boring pass-me-ball-and-I-will-pass-u-back game Milan use to play. Liverpool wins.

[RealMadrilismo]

Its tomorrow!!! Come on Liverpool!!!!!!!

2-1 win for liverpool!!!!


:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[Mirko Mandic]

3-1 we gona take the cup and this time its for "KEEPS"

[Lance Knight]

Tuesday, May 24, 2005

Spain turns red for El Liverpool


Antonio Nunez believes the quality of Mersey will stretch to Spain tomorrow when the Champions League final gets underway.
The 26-year-old winger insists that red will be the colour in his homeland when Liverpool face AC Milan in the Istanbul showdown.


Sangria rather than scouse is today's flavour at Anfield following the arrival of Spanish coach Rafael Benitez and a host of players from that nation.

Nunez said: 'When my friends call they say that we are the only Spanish team in Europe.

'They are happy for me and give me a lot of support.

'They feel this is their team, now Barcelona and Real Madrid have been knocked out.

'I know a lot of Spanish people want Liverpool to lift the trophy.'

Nunez, who arrived in the summer from Real Madrid, admits he is still coming to terms with life in England's top flight.

He blotted his copybook earlier this year when he was sent off in the FA Cup defeat by Championship side Burnley.

Nunez said: 'It has been a difficult first season in some ways for me. Things didn't go very well at the beginning.

'There is a very big difference between England and Spain. Here it is harder, more physical and the referees allow play to go on much more.

'Sometimes you have to work hard to try to improve the situation and people at Liverpool have helped me.

'I still have to improve. I am not at my best yet.

'I have to get that confidence that comes with playing every game.'

Nunez, who is likely to be on the bench against the Italians, said the key moment in the campaign came when Olympiacos were defeated.

'That result gave us strength,' he said

'For any player it is a dream to be involved in the final of the Champions League. But I knew when I came here I was joining a great club.

'So you always have a chance of being involved in these kind of big games.'

Liverpool will have massive backing in Turkey and Nunez says the supporters are second to none.

'The fans have been amazing and will again have a very important part to play,' added Nunez.

'You feel better when so many people are on your side.

'The atmosphere is brilliant at Anfield. It should be like that everywhere.'

[Lance Knight]

Tuesday, May 24, 2005

Baros could make final bow for Reds

Liverpool striker Milan Baros believes Wednesday's Champions League final could herald the end of his Anfield career.


The Czech forward could be dropped for the game following revelations that his agent, Pavel Paska, has been in talks with other clubs over a move at the end of the season.

Baros told the Daily Mirror: 'I have had several offers from other clubs and it is now the job of my agent Pavel to talk to them.

'I am calm about my future and I can concentrate fully on the Champions League final.

'Maybe I will leave Anfield, maybe I will stay.

'We will listen to what is offered.

'But my main aim at the moment is that I can keep my place ahead of (Djibril) Cisse for the final against Milan, and I will do my best to make that happen.'

[Lance Knight]

3-0 down, goals by maldini, and then two by cespo

[Fener_05]

Milan are killing Liverool.
It's over unless they can do what Man City done against Spurs.
If you know what i mean....

[ARBANITAI]

Milan are killing Liverool.
It's over unless they can do what Man City done against Spurs.
If you know what i mean....

Yes but now the score is 3-3 !!!
there are chances for bouth sides...
what a game !!!

[Fener_05]

It's probley going to penalties.

[ARBANITAI]

Wow Milan had a Great chance to Score but the keeper blocked it..
yes I also think their going to penalty !!!

[fusionfoot]

Liverpool! Liverpool! Victory Never Felt This Good!

[Fener_05]

What is wrong with you, you support Arsenal.

[Gennadios]

Props to Liverpool, what a great game. Most entertaining game I've ever seen, down 0-3 and come back to win 3-3 on penalties.

Kinda like a cinderella storyy

wowowow

[3tym]

Liverpool!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[fusionfoot]

What is wrong with you, you support Arsenal.


Your right, i do suport arsenal, but when i cant watch arsenal and ive been watching liverpool for the past month because they are the most common games aired around here in PA, i kinda grew fond of Liverpool.

[ARBANITAI]

Congratulations to Liverpool they were Amazing !!!

[roggie15]

Congrats to Liverpool on a great comeback and Champions League Championship vistory :thumbsup:

[Ivan7637]

OMG!!!! What a game......after it was 3-0 i for sure like everyone else thought it was over but liverpool refused to die. AMAZING game! The best club comeback ever! I felt really bad for sheva because first he misses a close up shot twice and then he misses the decisive penalty but i guess that's what he gets for shooting straight. You must be a complete idiotnot to pick a side when you shoot especially in a game like that.

Liverpool didn't deserve the first half but deserved the second half. Sure made my day. ;)

[stoyo1337]

Damn, what a amazing game! Congrats to Liverpool and Dudek who played a great game!

[Lance Knight]

I cant believe it this has to be the best come back ever in CL history, Liverpool has won it, a new legacy has unfolded. The Enlgish Premship Spaniards have taken the cup form the hands of the Italian Giant AC Milan, coming from 3-0 down, we have to celebratee for this,

[ARBANITAI]

Damn, what a amazing game! Congrats to Liverpool and Dudek who played a great game!

Yes Liverpool was Amazing tonight :) :thumbsup:

[Lance Knight]

Wednesday, May 25, 2005

AC Milan 3-3 Liverpool: FT Report

PA

ISTANBUL, May 25 (Champions League) - No wonder Liverpool walk on with hope in their hearts.

Hernan Crespo lifts Milan's third over Jerzy Dudek (AlexLivesey/GettyImages)

For Rafa Benitez's side completed the most remarkable comeback in the history of European finals to write a glorious new chapter in the club's already rich history.


Carried on the back of Steven Gerrard, their inspirational and defiant captain, Liverpool somehow recovered from a 3-0 half-time deficit with three incredible goals in six breathtaking minutes.

It was simply unbelievable.

But they were not finished there, with Jerzy Dudek producing two amazing late saves in extra-time before denying both Andrea Pirlo and Andriy Shevchenko amid the drama of a penalty shoot-out.

In 1984, they had last won the European Cup on penalties, with Bruce Grobbelaar's wobbly knees and Alan Kennedy's decisive strike.

This time, it was penalties again and Dudek dancing his way to hero status on the line, but that did not even tell half the story of a truly unforgettable night in Istanbul.

Rafa Benitez's side had seemed down and out after Paolo Maldini's first-minute strike was followed by two goals by on-loan Chelsea striker Hernan Crespo.

Many fans were even feeling sorry for themselves, having been harshly denied a penalty for handball at just 1-0 down, only seconds before Crespo's first goal.

However, that was reckoning without a tactical half-time masterstroke by Benitez, the talismanic qualities of Gerrard or the reactions of the often-doubted Dudek.

Given licence to push forward by Dietmar Hamannn's arrival, Gerrard headed his side's first goal on 54 minutes to restore belief and won the penalty for Xabi Alonso's third goal six minutes later.

With Vladimir Smicer having scored in between, Liverpool were now level and Serginho missing from the spot, while Shevchenko and Pirlo were both denied, Liverpool's players danced with unrestrained joy.

And so Anfield has a new crop of legends after surely the most improbable success of their five European crowns.

This was when even Manchester United's dramatic late comeback against Bayern Munich was eclipsed and few had imagined that could ever be possible.

But having confounded the odds to beat Juventus and Chelsea, a Liverpool side that had finished just fifth in the Premiership defied their underdog status once again.

It had all started so differently.

Benitez may have made the bold move of starting with Harry Kewell, but his side were behind after 52 seconds as the anticipated chess match between two supposedly cautious sides was turned on its head.

Pirlo's free-kick was met with a volley by Maldini, which struck the turf but still flew past Dudek, who was seemingly unsighted until the last moment.

Liverpool were stunned and struggled to recover their poise, with Kewell limping off injured amid jeers to be replaced by Smicer.

Still Milan pressed, with Garcia clearing off the line and Shevchenko harshly denied when his 'goal' was ruled offside.

Liverpool were nevertheless also foiled as Garcia turned inside Alessandro Nesta, who looked to have handled the ball, but referee Manuel Gonzalez waved play on.

Within seconds, Milan had scored, with the superb Kaka sending Shevchenko hurtling down the right channel and his cutback teed up Crespo to tap home from close range.

It was a harsh blow, but Milan's class was evident as Kaka played a pass of such exquisite perfection that Jamie Carragher was left stretching in vain as Crespo burst through to score.

It seemed all over. Not to Gerrard, however, and not to those in the Liverpool end who defiantly chanted 'we're going to win 4-3' as the teams re-emerged after the interval.

Few others believed them, but Benitez shifted his side around to near-magical effect at the break.

With Hamann on for Steve Finnan and three changes in a defence that effectively now became a back three, Gerrard was finally given the stage upon which to perform. And how he performed.

Dudek still had to produce a superb save from Shevchenko but Liverpool had an ace up their sleeve in their irreplaceable captain.

From Riise's cross, Gerrard looped a header past Dida before turning to exhort the crowd to follow his lead.

If some were still uncertain, those doubts were blown away when Smicer let fly from 25 yards out and Dida allowed the ball to slip through his grasp inside the far post.

Surely it was not possible? But Gerrard somehow forced his body forward onto Smicer's pass and was clipped on the back of his heels by former Rangers midfielder Gennaro Gattuso. Penalty.

Up stepped Alonso and although Dida flung himself to parry the spot-kick, the Spaniard smashed his follow-up effort into the roof of the net.

Milan rallied again but Liverpool were defiant, with Traore clearing off the line and Carragher producing last-ditch tackles on both Shevchenko and Kaka, while Jaap Stam's header also flew wide.

And so to extra-time, with Djibril Cisse by now on for Baros and Gerrard now effectively at right wing-back as Benitez countered the introduction of winger Serginho.

Even there, Gerrard was still immense, but bodies were being stretched to breaking point at the end of an arduous season, with Carragher playing through the pain barrier.

Liverpool were hanging on, but Dudek rescued his side with two amazing reaction saves from Shevchenko at point-blank range to force penalties.

Liverpool had hardly practised spot-kicks but neither, it seemed, had Serginho, who blazed the first effort way over the bar.

A German - Hamann - was rather more reliable before Dudek denied Pirlo but while Jon Dahl Tomasson scored, Riise's effort was saved by Dida.

Smicer nevertheless struck a superb penalty, setting up Dudek to crown a night of unbelievable drama in Istanbul.

After a 21-year absence, Liverpool are back at the pinnacle of European football. Surely UEFA cannot stop them defending a trophy won with this much drama and determination?

[Lance Knight]

and to top it off i just read Gerrad said that he is staying YEA!!!!!

[serb01]

Well done to Liverpool!!! u deserved it this yr after beating chelsea and juve on the rd to the final...now that u have beaten ac milan is something truely special..magnificent achievement and u deserve to b there next yr!!!

[Ivan7637]

If they don't let liverpool defend the title then ***k UEFA! yes they underperformed in the premiership but they took out Juve and Chelsea, I think that alone should earn them a spot.

[Becks]

Wow, the highest scoring CL match since the 1960's when Real Madrid played.

[ARBANITAI]

Wow, the highest scoring CL match since the 1960's when Real Madrid played.

Yes that was amazing by coming back from 3-0 to victory
Fantastic Job Liverpool :thumbsup: most greatest thing is to the liverpool fans they become the most happiest fans in the world after coming back and win the game so its kind of a miracle...... :) :rolleyes: :thumbsup:

[Lance Knight]

yea 6 goals that was dread, and becks u mean highest scoring CL final rite?

[RealMadrilismo]

Liverpool 2005 European Champions!!!!!!!

yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[SiN]

absolutley amazing performance in the 6 mins of that second half by POOL...i dunno what triggered their efforts...geeeezzz i thought they were gone afta the 3 goals AC scored...best bloody game ive seen in a while

WELL DONE POOOOOOLLLLLLL :thumbsup:

[devious]

BRAVVOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO BRAVOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO BRAVOOOOOOOOOO!!! LIVERPOOOOOOOLL!! BRAVOOOOOOOOOO!!!
THAT WAS MOTHER ***KEN AMAZING!!! I cant belive it.. thank you liverpool.. this was one of the best games that Ive ever seen in my all life.. IMO IT`S A MIRACLE!! HOW THE HELL DID YOU DO THAT!!? BENETIZ is the just a GENIUS!! so ***ken smart!!
GERRARD THE BEST PLAYER IN THE WORLD THIS YEAR WITHOUT ANY DOUBTS! he just stoped the ledt side in Milan, Maldini, Serginho and Seedorf were clairly OFF!!! D.Hamman is the shadow man of the game.. he was the root reason of the big turn!!It was incredible.. Bravo big team Liverpool.. BRAVO!! :D :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[Mel-liverpool]

YES YES YES!!!!!!! WE WON!!!

:heart:LIVERPOOL WE LOVE YOU!!!:heart:

[Aryan]

YES YES YES!!!!!!! WE WON!!!

:heart:LIVERPOOL WE LOVE YOU!!!:heart:
Cheerz Mel! Congrats. Just to let u know-whole Serbia supported Liverpool last night. :thumbsup:

[SE7E]

Damn, what a amazing game! Congrats to Liverpool and Dudek who played a great game!Dudek and Hypia were lucky...

[SE7E]

If they don't let liverpool defend the title then ***k UEFA! yes they underperformed in the premiership but they took out Juve and Chelsea, I think that alone should earn them a spot.Brazil should defend the WC without qualyfing too.

[GiorgioII]

All of the players were magnificent and congratulations to Carragher and Smicer who clearly played through a lot of pain. Gerrard was out of this world; the best player in the world. I read a rumour linking him to Inter, my team, last night, but I want him to remain at Liverpool now. The Pool were always my favourite team as a child and I have always been fond of them. Only for about 5 years have they slipped behind Inter, but they will always have a place in my heart and I was delighted last night. Sivers went down my spine. Wonderful and the best game of football I have ever watched.

[LopuZa]

Liverpul šampion Evrope

25.05.2005 21:35

Milan - Liverpul 3:3 (3:0, penalima 2:3)
Maldini 1', Krespo 39', 44' - Džerard 54', Smicer 56', Alonso 60'

Fudbaleri Liverpula su po peti put u istoriji kluba osvojili titulu prvaka Evrope, pošto su u spektakularnoj utakmici u Istanbulu pobedili ekipu Milana posle boljeg izvoðenja penala.

Nakon prvog poluvremena kada je Milan vodio sa 3:0, malo ko je mogao da pretpostavi da ce legendarni klub sa Enfilda uspeti da se vrati u život i domogne se trofeja. Heroj trijumfa "crvenih" je osporavani golman Jirži Dudek, koji odbranio cak tri penala i tako se iskupio za sve kikseve koje je pravio prethodnih godina.

http://www.sportskacentrala.com/fudbal/cl2004-05/istanbul-liverpul-grupna.jpg

Milan: Dida, Kafu, Stam, Nesta, Maldini, Pirlo, Gatuzo (112' Rui Košta), Sedorf (85' Seržinjo), Kaka, Sevcenko, Krespo (85' Tomason).

Liverpul: Dudek, Finan (46' Haman), Karaher, Hipija, Traore, Alonso, Rise, Džerard, Garsija, Kjuel (23' Smicer), Baroš (85' Sise).

Sudija: Manuel Mehuto Gonzales (Spanija)<br>
Žuti kartoni: Karaher, Baroš<br>
Crveni kartoni: - <br>
Prekršaji: 15 - 21<br>
Sutevi na gol (u okvir gola): 22 (10) - 15 (7)<br>
Korneri: 10 - 4<br>
Posed lopte: 55% - 45%

http://www.sportskacentrala.com/fudbal/cl2004-05/istanbul-milan-radost.jpg

Utakmica još nije cestito ni pocela, a Milan je došao do voðstva. Traore je nepotrebno naporavio prekršaj nadomak kaznenog prostora. Slobodan udarac je izveo Pirlo, a Maldini je sa desetak metara savladao Dudeka, pronasavši lopti put do gola kroz veliku gužvu pred golom Liverpula.

Malo je nedostajalo da "rosoneri" udvostruce prednost u 15. minutu. Sedorf je izveo korner, Krespo je na ivici peterca loptu zahvatio glavom, ali je Luis Garsija na samoj gol liniji bio dobro postavljen i sprecio pogodak. Evidentno je bilo da Liverpul želi da dodje što pre do izjednacenja, ali je u svojim redovima imao malo raspoloženih igraca, a u špicu usamljenog Baroša, što je bilo nedovoljno da se nadmudri cvrsta odbrana Milana.

Fudbaleri italijanske ekipe su možda osteceni u 29. minutu, kada im je poništen pogodak. Italijanski tim je izveo brzu polukontru u kojoj je lako izigrao odbranu Liverpula, lopta je dosla do Sevcenka koji je preciznim udarcem u suprotni ugao savladao Dudeka. Meðutim, as Milana se prema proceni pomocnog sudije našao u ofsajdu, pa pogodak nije priznat. Ta akcija je bila pravi pokazatelj zbivanja na terenu. Tim sa Enfilda je mnogo duže držao loptu u svom posedu, ali nije uspevao da ucini ništa konkretno, dok je gotovo svaki napad Milana predstavljao opasnost.

http://www.sportskacentrala.com/fudbal/cl2004-05/istanbul-krespo-radost.jpg

U 39. minutu vicešampion Italije je udvostrucio voðstvo. Prethodno je Liverpul izveo jedan od retkih ozbiljnih napada, Garsija je ušao u kazneni prostor, a Nesta je prilikom klizeceg starta igrao rukom. Sudija Mehuto Gonzales je dozvolio da se igra nastavi, a "rosoneri" su izveli brzu kontru. Sevcenko je pobegao svojim cuvarima, uposlio Krespa kojem nije bilo teško da sa 5-6 metara savlada Dudeka.

Ipak, ni tu nije bio kraj agonije Liverpula. Kaka je sa svoje polovine uputio fantastican dubinski pas u sredinu, Krespo je pretrcao svoje cuvare, došao sam pred Dudeka i iz prve, sa ivice šesnaesterca, rutinski poslao loptu u mrežu. Milan je pružio iznenaðujuce dobru i atraktivnu partiju, igrajuci veoma brzo i jednostavno i nema sumnje da ni mnogo jace ekipe od Liverpula veceras ne bi mogle da se odupru ovakvoj igri slavnog kluba.

Drugo poluvreme je pocelo obostrano otvoreno, ali Liverpul i dalje nije uspevao da stvori iole ozbiljniju priliku. Jedino vredno pomena je šut Alonsa sa tridesetak metara, koji je završio kraj gola, a na drugoj strani sut Sevcenka iz slobodnog udarca koji je Dudek odbranio. Kada je izgledalo da je igra "crvenih" sa Enfilda umrtvljena, došlo je do smanjenja rezultata. Rise je nabacio loptu sa leve strane, a Džerard je lepim i preciznom udarcem glavom poslao u rašlje Didinog gola.

http://www.sportskacentrala.com/fudbal/cl2004-05/istanbul-liverpul-radost.jpg

To je bio signal da Liverpul krene na sve ili ništa. I vec u sledecem minutu je prokljucao stadion u Istanbulu. Posle duge kombinacije veznog reda najtrofejnijeg engleskog kluba, lopta je došla do Smicera, koji nije oklevao i vrlo preciznim udarcem sa 25 metara je poslao u donji ugao gola Milana. S obzirom na to da je do kraja ostalo još mnogo vremena, sve je obecavalo sjajan mec do isteka 90. minuta.

Ni tu se ataci Liverpula nisu završili i furiozna igra je urodila plodom i po treci put. Gatuzo je sa leða povukao za dres Džerarda u svom kaznenom prostoru i sudija Mehuto Gonzales je odmah pokazao na belu tacku, a igraci Milana se nisu ni bunili protiv ovakve odluke. Cabi Alonso je ciljao donji desni ugao, Dida je odbranio šut, ali je španski reprezentativac prvi došao do obijene lopte ispred Maldinija i poslao je pod precku. Zaista je bilo neverovatno opisati atmosferu na stadionu u tim trenucima, jer su dvostruko brojnije pristalice engleskog kluba s pravom slavile preokret kakav se posle prvog poluvremena nije mogao naslutiti ni u snovima.

Milan je uspeo da se relativno brzo oporavi od šokantnog preokreta i vremenom je polako preuzeo inicijativu. Meðutim, bilo je primetno da nijedan od timova, kako je vreme odmicalo, ne želi previse da rizikuje, a takva igra je ocigledno vise odgovarala italijanskom predstavniku. Dva minuta pre kraja Milan je bio blizu novog voðstva. Posle kornera sa desne strane, Stam je glavom prosledio loptu do Kake, koji je sa svega pet metara, takoðe posle udarca glavom, bio neprecizan.

http://www.sportskacentrala.com/fudbal/cl2004-05/istanbul-liverpul-trofej.jpg"

Konacno, 90 minuta neverovatne igre je završeno bez pobednika. Milan je imao za cime da žali jer je prokockao ogromnu prednost, a Liverpul je trebalo da bude prezadovoljan cinjenicom da je fanaticnom borbenošcu došao do produzetaka i prilike da se domogne najznacajnijeg trofeja.

Kao što se i pretpostavljalo, produžetak je poceo u dosta mirnom ritmu, što je i razumljivo s obzirom na jak tempo tokom 90 minuta. Milan je ponovo imao više od igre, a Tomason solidnu priliku kada je ostao sam na petercu, ali nije uspeo da zahvati loptu onako kako je želeo. Bilo je primetno da su igraci oba tima premoreni, poceli su da ih hvataju grcevi i bilo je sve izvesnije da ce uz mnogo muke mec privesti kraju.

U drugom produžetku gotovo da se igralo na jedan gol. Milan je konstantno napadao, ali je teško bili stvoriti ozbiljnu sanšu za pogodak kraj zgusnute odbrane Liverpula, u kojoj su na momente i devetorica igraca bili u svom kaznenom prostoru. Dva minuta pre kraja proslavio se Jirži Dudek. Prvo je Sevcenko sa svega 3-4 metra neometan šutirao glavom, ali je poljski reprezentativac kratko odbio loptu koju je Ukrajinac opet zahvatio, ali je Dudek jos jednom fantasticno reagovao. Zato se slobodno može reci da je iskljucivo zahvaljujuci svom golmanu Liverpul izborio penale.

Penali:<br>
0:0 Seržinjo sutira preko gola<br>
0:1 Haman<br>
0:1 Dudek brani sut Pirla<br>
0:2 Sise<br>
1:2 Tomason<br>
1:2 Dida brani sut Risea<br>
2:2 Kaka<br>
2:3 Smicer<br>
2:3 Dudek brani sut Sevcenka

http://www.sportskacentrala.com/fudbal/cl2004-05/istanbul-dida-tuga.jpg

Trijumfom Liverpula se ponovila 1978. godina kada je Liverpul takoðe osvojio tadašnji Kup šampiona.

Podsetimo, Sportska centrala je pre nekoliko nedelja objavila zanimljiv podatak iz te godine. Naime, Liverpul je tada prvo izgubio finale Liga kupa Engleske od ekipe koja je postala šampion (tada Notingem Forest, a sada Celsi), velška ragbi reprezentacija je osvojila Gren Slem, a te godine je, kao i ove, preminuo poglavar Rimokatolicke crkve.

Istorija se tako ponovila, a pehar francuskog "Ekipa" koji se tradicionalno dodeljuje evropskom šampionu, boravice narednih godinu dana u kolevci fudbala.

Foto Vesko Draškicevic:

http://www.sportskacentrala.com/fudbal/cl2004-05/istanbul-vesko-01.jpg

http://www.sportskacentrala.com/fudbal/cl2004-05/istanbul-vesko-02.jpg

http://www.sportskacentrala.com/fudbal/cl2004-05/istanbul-vesko-03.jpg

http://www.sportskacentrala.com/fudbal/cl2004-05/istanbul-vesko-04.jpg

http://www.sportskacentrala.com/fudbal/cl2004-05/istanbul-vesko-05.jpg

http://www.sportskacentrala.com/fudbal/cl2004-05/istanbul-vesko-06.jpg

[Minof]

Congradulations to the Pool....

3 Cheers
Hip hip horray....
Hip hip horray.....
Hip hip Horrrrrrrrrrrrraaaaaaaayyyyy....

Great match, great comeback......

[Lance Knight]

actually G inter said they cant afford him,lol

and lopuz can u translate that, it would be nice

[Mirko Mandic]

i cried when it was 3-nil, yelled passionately and got a hit accross the head from my dad at 3-1 (about 6.20am) heeded gerards call for more and swung my liverpool scarf at 3-2, cried at 3-3. Hell was nervous in the penalties TEARS OF JOY AS SHEVA MISSED.

HELL I HAVE BEEN SAYING WE WILL WIN IT THIS YEAR SINCE JANUARY. SO I HALF XPECTED A WIN. AND I ALSO SAID WE WOULD SCORE 3 AND RIISE WILL SET UP SOMEONE A HEADER.

[Lance Knight]

i also did tsome of those things except the crying part, and the scarf part i dont have one,lol
but i did jump up and down like i was crazy,lol

[Mirko Mandic]

well man i had exams that day and a indoor comp, you dont know how i tired i was at the end of the day. (kik off in australia was like 4.45am)

BTW READ THIS PRAISE FROM MARADONNA




Maradona hails greatest comeback

Diego Maradona admits he was astonished by Liverpool's comeback to win the Champions League final against AC Milan.


The Argentine legend believes even the Brazil 1970 World Cup winning side - widely considered the best the world has ever seen - would not have been able to achieve it.

"Even the Brazil team that won the 1970 World Cup could not have staged a comeback with Milan leading 3-0," he told Italy's Sky channel

Liverpool were trailing Milan 3-0 at half-time in Istanbul before three goals in the space of six mad minutes saw the Reds draw level, before they forced the game to a penalty shoot-out.

Rafael Benitez's side then held their nerve in the lottery of spot-kicks to claim their fifth European title and deny Milan a seventh.

"I am disappointed as anyone who has played in Italy would be," said the former Napoli and Argentina favourite. "At 3-0 Milan were convinced that no-one could come back.


"But what has happened has happened. Milan never stopped playing and Shevchenko could have won it in extra-time (when Liverpool goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek made a superb double save).

"I have seen comebacks like that in football but never against a team that so clearly was superior as Milan were."

High praise for the Merseysiders from one of football's best ever players, who has hailed their remarkable fightback as the greatest of all time.

[Maccabi 4ever]

I think its funny how people are worried they will lose to basel when they beat chelsea Juve and Ac Milan

[Mirko Mandic]

I think its funny how people are worried they will lose to basel when they beat chelsea Juve and Ac Milan
what u on about???
if its the beiging than nw that was from the 2002/03 season.

[bitsakos]

Come to Pireaus, and we'll beat you again. Can nobody win down here.
(except newcastle when they were 11 players against 9). just waitin'...
Karaiskaki stadium baby!!

[Mirko Mandic]

Come to Pireaus, and we'll beat you again. Can nobody win down here.
(except newcastle when they were 11 players against 9). just waitin'...
Karaiskaki stadium baby!!
next year no one will even manage a draw at Anfield.

[Mirko Mandic]

well hey ill kick of the new thred.

As we all know we are in the 1st knock-out stage of CL so wen it gets drawn ill post oppistion ect.
:rolling:

[Mirko Mandic]

REDS 4th RANKED TEAM IN EUROPE

REDS WOULD AVOID EURO BIG GUNS
Paul Eaton 22 June 2005
UEFA have confirmed that Liverpool will be among the eight top seeds if they qualify for the group stages of the Champions League.
Rafael Benitez's men first have to overcome three qualifying rounds before they reach the lucrative group stages, but if they do get there then they will avoid Europe's big guns in the draw.

Arsenal and Manchester United will also figure among the top eight seeds, but Chelsea face the prospect of drawing a top European side as their UEFA coefficient is only high enough to place them in the second group of seeds.

Liverpool have no 'country protection' in this season's competition and so could be drawn into Chelsea's group. The Reds could even face Everton in the third qualifying round of the competition.

Everton are ranked 42nd in UEFA's club coefficient list and so would be in the fourth and lowest group if they were to qualify.

Top group of seeds assuming Liverpool, Man United and Inter Milan qualify for group stages (UEFA coefficient in brackets):

1 Real Madrid (Spa) 131.326
2 Barcelona (Spa) 117.326
3 AC Milan (Ita) 121.191
4 Liverpool (Eng, title-holders) 115.864
5 Manchester United (Eng) 110.864,
6 Inter Milan (Ita) 101.191,
7 Bayern Munich (Ger) 97.166,
8 Arsenal (Eng) 93.864.

[Mirko Mandic]

TNS GET DREAM TIE

REDS FACE TNS IN CL QUALIFIER
Steve Hunter 24 June 2005
Liverpool will begin the defence of their Champions League crown with a first round qualifier against Welsh side Total Network Solutions over two legs on dates to be confirmed shortly.
The first leg takes place on Tuesday/Wednesday, July 12/13 with the second leg a week later on Tuesday/Wednesday, July 19/20.

The official confirmation of the dates for the two first round qualifying matches will be announced shortly.

It is a dream tie for TNS as before UEFA entered Liverpool into this season's Champions League the Welsh side had offered to play the Reds in a play-off.

TNS are managed by former Tranmere Rovers striker Kenny McKenna and they comfortably won the Welsh title last season. Their leading goalscorer was Marc Lloyd Williams who hit 33 goals.

Providing Liverpool get past TNS they would then face either HB Torshavn from the Faroe Islands or Lithuanian champions FBK Kaunas in the second qualifying round over two legs.