Liverpool have reached their third Champions League final in the last 5 years thanks to a 5 -2 aggregate victory over Spanish side Villarreal.
In the second leg, Villarreal, who hadn’t managed a single shot on target in the first leg came flying out of the blocks and scored the first goal of the night in just the third minute. They pressed and harried their opponents at every opportunity before ex-Arsenal man Francis Coquelin headed home an excellent second to level the tie at 2-2.
With the hosts sensing a famous upset, Klopp responded by bringing on Colombian ace Luis Diaz at halftime and Diaz’s introduction changed the match entirely.
Diaz bought composure and a much needed attacking threat, with his movement stretching the Villarreal defence at every possible opportunity.
With Diaz proving to be a constant menace, spaces were starting to appear in the Villarreal defence and Fabinho took full advantage smashing a shot through the legs of the Villarreal keeper. Just five minutes later Diaz would restore Liverpool’s two goal advantage with a well taken header. Sadio Mane then wrapped up victory with the decisive third goal.
Liverpool’s quest for a historic quadruple is still on. With Mo Salah not enjoying a great spell in front of goal, Diaz will need to continue performing if Liverpool are to have the historic season they desperately crave.
