Rafa offers tactical advice to Liverpool ahead of Atletico clash

Will Ford
during the Barclays Premier League match between Liverpool and Newcastle United at Anfield on April 23, 2016 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.

Former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has offered his tactical advice ahead of the Reds’ crunch Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid at Anfield.

The Spanish side won the first leg 1-0, but Benitez insists the Anfield crowd will urge Liverpool on to victory.

He told the Times: “This is the kind of game that Liverpool should win because they are playing at Anfield. They will create chances, put a lot of pressure on their rivals and the supporters will be behind them.

“The main thing for Liverpool is to stay calm, not to panic or rush things, and they must not make any big mistakes.

“In a game like this it is important to keep a good balance as a team, so that if the full backs are going forward someone from midfield has to be ready to fill in.

“Also, Liverpool will look to regain the ball high up the pitch if it is possible so that does not give Atletico time to reorganise.

“Atletico Madrid is a team with experience, one which is used to playing in the Champions League and good at holding a lead because they can be so organised,” he continued.

“They will look to threaten on the counterattack. It becomes difficult if Atletico score, but Liverpool can still be favourites.”

 

 

Liverpool’s current manager Jurgen Klopp warned Atletico to expect a hostile atmosphere at Anfield after accusing Diego Simeone’s side of attempting to get Sadio Mane suspended.

“Obviously the plan was to get Sadio out of the game with a yellow card. I was afraid his opponent would go down even if Sadio takes a deep breath,” Klopp said.

“Emotions are important. I am really looking forward to the second leg.

“It’s half-time and we are 1-0 down. Why should we give up? Even better, the second half will be in a different stadium, our stadium, that will be different and Atletico will feel that, and that’s what we are looking forward to.”