Liverpool knocked Bayern Munich out of the Champions League as they registered an emphatic 3-1 win at the Allianz Arena in the second leg of this blockbuster tie. The visitors produced a comprehensive performance and has joined the likes of Ajax, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, Manchester City, Porto, and Barcelona.
Sadio Mane, who is enjoying his best goalscoring season, opened the account for Liverpool with a brilliant right-footed finish by going around Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. However, the lead lasted till the 39th minute as Joel Matip's own goal made the scores level on the night.
The visitors returned more determined in the second half and were quite impressive in every area of the game. Virgil Van Dijk further extended Liverpool's lead with a headed strike in the 69th minute. Bayern Munich was exposed in many areas and more was yet to come from the Merseysiders. Sadio Mane did his business again and ensured that his side sealed a place in quarterfinals of the Champions League.
It was one of Liverpool's greatest Champions League away performances in their history and here are the three reasons why they were able to achieve it.
#3 Virgil Van Dijk solid yet again as Reds' backline nullifies Lawendowski and co
It was yet another brilliant day at the office for the commander of one of the best defences in the world, Virgil Van Dijk. The Dutch defender won countless aerial duels and individual battles with Robert Lewandowski and his fellow Bayern Munich forwards as he was ably supported by Joel Matip.
Apart from the own goal from Matip, the Reds backline was solid and stubborn against a highly attack-minded side. Furthermore, Van Dijk scored to put the seal on an outstanding performance.
#2 Substitute Fabinho impressive again and a solid second half by Reds
Liverpool was forced to make an early change as Jordan Hendersongot injured with Fabinhointroduced as his replacement. This transition in the early stages worked in favor of Liverpool to a great extent as Fabinho was rock solid and intercepted numerous balls from Bayern's midfield. He made a brilliant tackle in the latter stage of the second half to stop Kingsley Coman when he was through on goal.
It was a comprehensive display from the Reds in the second half as looked more confident and focused in the last 45 minutes. They had more shots, more possession and were defensively tight in second half. The visitors took complete control of the game and cruised towards a fully deserved win.
#1 Sadio Mane's brilliant form and proficiency in front of the goal
Sadio Mane is the best goal scoring season of his career. The Senegalese put the Reds in front with a fine right-footed strike. He remained a continuous threat for Bayern Munich's defensive line and was rightly supported by fellow teammates Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah.
His form is picking up at the right time for Liverpool and this is a very promising sign for the remainder of the Reds' campaign.
