UEFA Champions League: Key takeaways from second set of quarters
Manchester City's hopes of winning the quadruple this season was ended by Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur. In an entertaining UEFA Champions League quarter-finals second leg tie at the Etihad, Spurs sealed progression on away goal basis, despite a 4-3 win for City. Meanwhile, Liverpool progressed safely after thrashing Porto. They will face Barcelona in the semis. Here are the key takeaways.
The tale of two VAR decisions
In this modern day classic, VAR made the difference in the end. City almost booked their place in the semis, but their joy was cut short after VAR ruled out Raheem Sterling's goal for offside in injury-time. In the 73rd minute Fernando Llorente's goal from a corner was confirmed by VAR. It had actually hit his hip as VAR checked on the handball.
Sterling and Son produce stellar performances
This City versus Spurs match will go down as one of the Champions League classics. The first 20 minutes was frantic display at its best. Raheem Sterling and Son Heung-min showed immense character with a brace each. Both players stood out on a big European night. Credit to Spurs for being brave and bold. They made City pay for their sloppy defending.
Are Liverpool the favorites to win 2018-19 UCL title?
Liverpool's 4-1 thrashing of FC Porto ensured that the Reds sealed an aggregate 6-1 win. This was a complete performance from Liverpool, who will go into the semis tie against Barcelona with added impetus. The 2017-18 finalists were too good for Porto. What will please Jurgen Klopp is the authority shown by both attack and defense. Virgil van Dijk (9 clearances) was a rock.
