Image By Shaun Botterill via Getty Images

Aveek Chaudhuri, April 15, 2021

Down 3-1 in their Champions League quarter final tie with Real Madrid, Liverpool might have thought that they could make another spectacular comeback at Anfield similar to that of 2019 against Barcelona. But Real Madrid had other ideas as they again shut down Liverpool and easily cruised to a 0-0 draw to solidify their spot in the semi finals.

Considering their lead, Zinedine Zidane decided to approach the match in a defensive minded manner while Jurgen Klopp went the total opposite way. As a result, Liverpool dominated the match with possession and shots. The Reds had 15 shots with 4 on target while keeping 57% of possession. Meanwhile, Los Blancos only had 6 total shots with a mere 2 on target while keeping 43% possession.

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Liverpool did have their chances, their biggest of the match coming 2 minutes in when Mohamed Salah had an one on one with Thibaut Courtois and forced the Madrid keeper to make an excellent save. And immediately after, James Milner had a curler wonderfully saved by Courtois in the 11’ minute. But overall, Madrid’s defense was able to shut down Liverpool’s attacks time and time again.

The likes of Eder Militao, Nacho, and Casemiro had massive performances with frequent tackles, clearances, and interceptions made. And one notable performance was Federico Valverde who, despite being injured, did an excellent job at covering the right back position, with both Carvajal and Lucas Vazquez out with injury. Ferland Mendy, of course, was his usual composed self, making darting runs continuously while handling both Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold with ease.

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Even though most teams fear going to Anfield, it seems that Real Madrid were determined to show Liverpool that they weren’t scared, especially after the attack on Madrid’s bus. Before the game, Liverpool fans were throwing objects at the Real Madrid player buses, a window even being shattered. But that only motivated players even more. Valverde even told ESPN that the attack motivated him “to give his all.” And the players indeed did give it their all.

Real Madrid now see themselves in the race for both the La LIga title and the Champions League title. They are only one point behind league leaders Atletico Madrid. And their last obstacle to reaching the Champions League final is Manchester City, their opponent for the semi finals. Although the schedule and pressure will be tough, Real Madrid will be relieved a bit by the returns of Sergio Ramos, Raphael Varane, and Dani Carvajal who are expected to return soon. If everything goes to plan, Madrid could potentially see themselves winning the double this season.