Liverpool vs Barcelona: Key takeaways from the Champions League encounter
Liverpool outclassed Barcelona 4-0 at Anfield to make it to UEFA Champions League 2018-19 final. The Reds produced a scintillating display and completed a stunning turnaround after trailing Barca 0-3 from the first leg of their semi-final. The win will go down as one of the most pleasing displays at Anfield for Liverpool. Here are the key takeaways.
Liverpool's energy and fitness thwarted Barca at Anfield
The atmosphere was electric at Anfield and Liverpool made the most out of the situation to make Barcelona look nervous from the beginning. The early goal by Divock Origi gave Liverpool the base to fight. The players stuck together and played with responsibility to thwart Lionel Messi & Co. Liverpool players' fitness stole the show. They pressed Barca all night and made them panic.
Wijnaldum's brace after the break changed the complexion
The introduction of Georginio Wijnaldum in the second half by Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp turned out to be a game-changer. The Dutchman scored twice in a space of 122 seconds after the break to swing the match in their favor. Barca looked stunned and couldn't come up with a response. Origi then put the final nail in the coffin after Barca were caught napping.
Barcelona throw away significant advantage all over again
Barcelona entered the match as favorites, with Liverpool superstars Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah ruled out of the tie. But the Spanish champions faced a humiliating result and it all seemed like last season, when they were stunned 3-0 by Roma. For the second year in running, Barca threw away a significant advantage. This was a shabby performance after all the highs last week.
