Reds Defeat Was Not A Surprise
Liverpool lost to Real Madrid in last night’s eagerly awaited clash with the champions of Europe, the game marked Liverpool’s return to Europe’s elite competition by playing the 10 time champions of the competition.
A magical goal from World footballer of the year Cristiano Ronaldo and a double from French international striker Karim Benzema killed off Liverpool’s hopes of producing another famous European night at Anfield.
The Reds started the game brightly before Ronaldo’s sublime effort changed the game and it was so comfortable for the Spanish giants after the opening goal as they showed their class before taking their foot off the gas in the second half, Coutinho’s shot against the post at the end of the first half was Liverpool’s best effort of the night.
Like most Liverpool’s supporters I was optimistic that Rodgers’ men could produce another famous European night, but realistically I feared the worst with Liverpool struggling for form and conceding too many goals with a defence that doesn’t inspire confidence of keeping a clean sheet.
The thought of Ronaldo up against Glen Johnson filled me with fear and with the lazy Mario Balotelli in attack I wondered where the goals were going to come from, and my fears were realised in a first half that left the Reds trailing 3-0 at half-time.
I was relieved that Real Madrid eased off in the second half or it could have been really embarrassing, but at the end of the day the score was probably expected regarding how both clubs are playing at the moment.
Ludogorets win over Basel gives Liverpool hope of qualifying for the next stage of the Champions League, so after a sobering night at Anfield there is still plenty to play for and a win against Hull on Saturday can put Liverpool back on track.