Liverpool’s defensive vulnerability was on shown after they went 2-0 up against the reigning champions in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie.
Now, Jurgen Klopp’s side have a three-goal deficit to face when they travel to the Bernabeu to achieve what some are calling the ‘unthinkable’.
Liverpool certainly have a mountain to climb, but Jamie Carragher has outlined a key factor that his former side must achieve if they are to climb that Madrid-based mountain that lies before them.
The Sky Sports pundit will have full belief in the Merseysiders as they have tended to reply to a dominating Ancelotti first leg in style.
Carragher was a key part of Liverpool’s Champions League-winning team after being 3-0 down at the interval.
When speaking to The Athletic, he spoke about the influence of the second half and, in particular, the first goal after the break.
“The challenge facing Liverpool isn’t as big as the one facing us back then.
“We only had 45 minutes to turn around from three goals down, but this Liverpool team have 90 minutes. That’s why I’d say Istanbul has the edge even if they pull this one off [at the Bernabeu].
“The biggest thing is that Liverpool have to score the first goal on the night. That’s vital.
“They have to start fast. Pulling one back gives you belief and something to build on. That’s what happened to us with the header from Steven Gerrard.”
The Reds have a reoccurring theme of big comebacks on the biggest stage of football, including in the 2019 second-leg semi-final, where once again the first goal proved crucial.
Supporters of Liverpool will be praying their club are able to replicate the same brilliance tonight.
