3 things Jurgen Klopp came to a realization and three things he did correct as flimsy Liverpool made it to the final
Liverpool advanced to the Champions League final after defeating Villarreal 3-2 (and 5-2 on aggregate), but they had to work hard for it after falling behind by two goals on the night.
Jurgen Klopp, the manager of Liverpool, must have breathed a sigh of relief after his team survived a huge scare against Villarreal on Tuesday night.
The Spanish side drew level on aggregate after goals from Boulaye Dia and Francis Coquelin in a shocking first half in which the Reds looked completely lost as Unai Emery's men put them to the sword. After the break, Liverpool regained control and deserved to win after the introduction of Luis Diaz completely changed the game.
Fabinho put Liverpool ahead on aggregate after goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli made a costly error when his shot went through the former Manchester City star's legs. And Diaz ensured the outcome when he latched onto Trent Alexander-cross Arnold's and headed home to restore Liverpool's two-goal lead, before another error from Rulli allowed Sadio Mane to net and put the game to bed - but where did Klopp go wrong?
Naby Keita not at it
After scoring the game-winning goal against Newcastle, Klopp experimented with Keita in midfield, leaving reliable options Jordan Henderson and James Milner on the bench. It backfired on them.
Keita had a nightmare first half and was lucky not to be sent off before halftime, making error after error and nearly giving away a goal when Alisson was on the verge of giving away a penalty. However, as Villarreal's intensity faded, Keita regained control.
Inability to match intensity
It didn't take a genius to predict that the Estadio de la Ceramica would be rocking tonight and that Villarreal would fly out of the gates, but Liverpool were unable to match their ferocity. They were severely punished for conceding so early in the game.
That set the tone for the next 90 minutes, with Villarreal giving Liverpool their most difficult night in years.
Full-backs in distress
Trent Alexander-defending Arnold's has gotten a lot of attention over the years, but he was completely exposed on Tuesday night. Throughout the evening, Villarreal targeted his flank, where there was plenty of space.
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