Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool did the unthinkable over the first leg in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash against Manchester City. Pitted against opponents who were expected to brush aside the Reds, Klopp’s men pulled out a master class performance and rendered City hapless.
They took advantage of City’s predictable game style and adjusted their game to hit City where it hurt the most. Klopp specifically set up a beautiful counter-attacking team, which ripped City apart and their high defensive line. The power, pace and finesse of Liverpool’s counter-attacking play complimented by a wonder strike from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain saw City lose the first leg 3-0.
Klopp has been extra careful to proceed with caution as the tie has another leg to go before it can be decided. Norm would dictate that the clash is all but over but Guardiola’s boys are far from done. They have ruled England all season and scored goals galore.
They can be expected to come at Liverpool with everything especially with their hopes of a European trophy at stake. Klopp will have to charge his boys up one more time for another mega clash. The advantage does lie with Liverpool, thanks to their splendid home display last week.
For the second leg at the Etihad, all they need to do is ensure a defeat by a margin lower than two goals. Moreover, if they can score one away goal, even a three-goal defeat would see Manchester City walk away and out of the Champions League.
Here is how Klopp can be expected to set his team up for the mega clash.
Formation: 4-3-3
Defence:
Loris Karius can be expected in goal for Liverpool. The right back of the defence will most likely be going to the man of the match of the last tie between the two sides, Trent Alexander-Arnold. The youngster impressed heavily and can be expected in the team once again.
The left-back position will be going to Andrew Robertson with Virgil Van Dijk and Dejan Lovren tasked with playing as the two centre-backs. They will have a tough time keeping City out.
Midfield:
Georginio Wijnaldum is expected to start in place of Jordan Henderson, who is suspended for the second leg. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner are expected to start as his two midfield partners, adding a further shield to the backline.
Attack:
The terrific trio of Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane can be expected to lead the line for Liverpool yet again.
