Will Villareal see the next sensation at Anfield? Bayern could be defeated in the quarter-finals after a 1-0 win in the first leg and 1-1 in the second leg. Previously, Juventus Turin was eliminated in the round of 16. Does the next favorite now have to believe in it? While the participation in the premiere final would be a historic success for the Spaniards, the “Reds” have higher goals and are firmly aiming for the third title win after 2005 and 2019.
The Reds are dancing at four weddings at the moment. From the point of view of the Klopp team, the season can become historic. You could get the quadruple, i.e. four titles. In any case, the direction is correct. Now you want to take the first step towards the final. The balance sheet for the year is impressive so far. In 26 competitive games, it only suffered an irrelevant defeat in the “premier class” against Inter Milan, 21 games ended victoriously.
However, Liverpool FC will not underestimate the reigning Europa League winners. Villarreal has perhaps the most successful coach in cup competitions. It’s incredible what he’s doing. Anyone who throws out Juventus and Bayern deserves to be in the semifinals,” said Klopp. The German was particularly impressed by the defensive performance of the Spaniards in the 1-1 draw in Munich. “It’s going to be tough, but it’s the semi-finals in the Champions League. If it wasn’t hard, something would go wrong.” And Origi added: “It has never been easy for us to achieve success. We accept the challenge and try to master it.”
But Villarreal doesn’t have fond memories of them Liverpool-Homestead. In 2016 there was a 0:3 defeat and the bitter end in the Europa League semi-finals after a 1-0 home win. Six years later, the revenge should succeed in the most important European Cup competition. “We’re looking forward to playing against an opponent who is in great form. We’ll fight back with all the confidence in the world, together we’re strong,” said midfielder Dani Parejo.
However, Villarreal was able to prepare for the duel for a week in total. That too could be an advantage. Liverpool knows we performed great at European level, were able to knock out two top teams. So you know it won’t be easy. They will see themselves as favourites, of course, but also have respect,” said Emery. His respect is great. “This is the best Liverpoolteam I’ve ever seen. That’s extra motivation to try to beat them.”
If the “Yellow Submarine” wants to play in the Champions League next season, the only way to go is probably through the title. Because in the domestic league the chances of qualifying for the premier class are low, especially since you are nine points behind a top four place.
