UEFA Champions League 2017/18: Best XI of the semi-finals

Midfield

Central midfielder: Radja Nainggolan (AS Roma)

The Belgian scored a brace last night

Barring his error of judgement that led to Liverpool's first goal in the second leg, Radja Nainggolan was AS Roma's most creative player over two legs. Be it his brilliant assist to Edin Dzeko in the first leg or his brace in the second that gave Roma a glimmer of hope, Nainggolan was a force to reckon with!

The Belgian enforcer was neat with his passing, providing Edin Dzeko with a lot to work with, and joined in the attack whenever possible. Liverpool's midfield was overrun by Roma in the second leg and Nainggolan was a major reason for that.

Central midfielder: James Milner (Liverpool)

Milner played a huge role in Liverpool's win against Roma over two legs

In many ways, Liverpool's tireless gameplay was epitomized by none other than James Milner. The veteran midfielder was at his best in both the legs against Roma, putting in an industrious shift at Anfield and the Stadio Olimpico.

Providing an assist in the first leg, Milner was a crucial cog in Liverpool's build-up play. He pressed with intent and retained the ball well. In the second leg, Milner often provided an option for the forwards.

Central attacking midfielder: James Rodriguez (Bayern Munich)

James proved his worth

The Colombian played with a point to prove and showed Zinedine Zidane and Real Madrid why they were wrong to ship him out on loan. He scored at the Bernabeu, hit the woodwork once and had numerous chances to score the winner for his current side.

He also helped Bayern Munich press high up. From his crosses into the box to forays into dangerous positions and passes into halfspaces, Rodriguez was one of the best players in this tie.