Liverpool 2-5 Real Madrid: Hosts Thrashed by Holders in Champions League Last 16
Disastrous Start
Liverpool got off to a shocking start, conceding two goals within the first 15 minutes, courtesy of Vinicius Jr.'s opener and Karim Benzema's penalty.
The hosts fought back, with Darwin Nunez beautifully heading in a cross from Mohamed Salah. However, the comeback was short-lived as Vinicius Jr. restored Real's two-goal lead before halftime.
Second Half Dominance
The second half belonged to Real Madrid, with Benzema scoring his second goal to make it 4-1. Eder Militao added another one, putting the game out of reach for Liverpool.
Liverpool managed to pull one back through Mohamed Salah, but it was merely a consolation as Real Madrid cruised to a 5-2 victory.
Expert Reactions
Jurgen Klopp admitted his team's performance was "not good enough" and called it "a really tough night."
Carlo Ancelotti praised his players for their resilience and quality, saying they "showed their experience and character."
Match Data
Liverpool: 2 goals (Nunez, Salah), 4 shots on target, 50% possession
Real Madrid: 5 goals (Vinicius Jr. x2, Benzema x2, Militao), 6 shots on target, 52% possession
What's Next?
Liverpool face a daunting task in the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu on March 15th, needing to overturn a three-goal deficit to progress to the quarter-finals.
Real Madrid, on the other hand, will aim to build on their advantage and secure their place in the next round.
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