Let’s face facts. In the months to come, there’s much work to be done at Anfield.
The 2018 Champions League final had it all: calamities, errors, passion, electric atmosphere, heartbreak, and absolute genius. In the end, experience triumphed over exuberance, youthful naivety, and (sadly) utter incompetence.
Courtesy: The Independent
Prior to the game, many pundits backed Liverpool, thinking that the Red would overcome the ruthless winning machine that is Real Madrid, But they were wrong. And with good reason, too… With snarling winners, like the immortal Cristiano Ronaldo, the midfield duo of Modric and Kroos, and ever-present captain Sergio Ramos, one had to ask: Why bet against Madrid?
Yes, there were periods in the game where Liverpool were on top, pressing Madrid high up the pitch as they do to great effect. That prevented Real from gaining rhythm and asserting dominance. But, still, there was always the feeling that Real Madrid had the steel and resolve to soak up any pressure Liverpool might offer.
Losing Mohammed Salah, the Premier League’s best player, to a dislocated shoulder was a massive blow. The impact was visible. Even Jurgen Klopp, who’s normally superfluously animated, looked to be a dejected figure on the sideline.
Liverpool’s overreliance on one player should have been a cause for concern. Ultimately, it cost them the night. The lack of squad depth is an issue for the Merseyside club that must be rectified in the summer transfer window.
But this night will be forever known for the ludicrous errors made by goalkeeper Loris Karius. That’s what fans will remember.
Jurgen Klopp must take responsibility for his trust in this “professional.” The quotation marks emphasize Karius’ lack of concentration, poor technique, and the inability to command his area and make himself a presence. Those mistakes would never be have been made by a professional. He can apologize all he wants, but he should be chased from the gates of Anfield.
Courtesy: SportsJOE.ie
Gareth Bale shoots from 30 yards, knowing full well that this goalkeeper could make a mistake at any time. A competent goalkeeper would have been enough for Liverpool. And this club should have invested in one within the previous transfer windows. Klopp must accept responsibility for what is nothing but negligence.
Yes, it was a fairytale journey for LFC on the way to yet another Champions League final. But, in the end, last Saturday’s game and outcome should serve as a sobering reality check.
Six finals in a row lost. A terrible goalkeeper. A bang-average engine room. A flimsy, perilous defence. None of those things can be overcome by a magnificent and deadly attacking trio.
Liverpool fans suffered from false optimism. Now, let’s face facts: in the months to come, there is much work to be done at Anfield.
