UEFA Champions League: Team of the Quarterfinals

AS Roma v FC Barcelona - UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Second Leg
AS Roma created the biggest shock of the quarter-finals by knocking out Barcelona

Right Back: Trent Alexander Arnold (Liverpool)

Liverpool v Newcastle United - Premier League
Alexander Arnold played a crucial role in stifling Leroy Sane

Alexander-Arnold was identified as the weak-link in Liverpool's defence after a shaky performance against Marcus Rashford in the game against Manchester United. The 19-year old right-back went into the high-pressure tie having to deal with City's tricky winger Leroy Sane on the flanks.

He put in probably his best performance till date in the first leg by managing to keep Sane at bay. In the second leg with City chasing goals, Sterling and Sane swapped sides on a regular basis to attack the young Englishman, but were once again dealt with expertly by the Liverpool man. He was brave while defending against the pacy wingers and he looked comfortable circulating the ball across the pitch.

He showed a maturity well beyond his years and similar performances like this might earn him a place on the England squad for the World Cup.


Centre Back: Dejan Lovren (Liverpool)

Manchester City v Liverpool - UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Second Leg
Dejan Lovren put up a colossal performance in both legs

Virgil van Dijk's presence beside him as done him a world of good. Lovren has improved by leaps and bounds and more of it was seen in his solid performances against Manchester City. With Manchester City's array of attacking talent searching for goals after falling three behind in the first half of the first leg, it was imperative that the defense held firm amidst the waves of attacks.

He was solid in defense as he kept Jesus quiet. He made a crucial block when he deflected a goal-bound Bernardo Silva shot onto the post and made numerous interceptions and clearances. Such impressive performances are encouraging from a man who has been under constant pressure due to numerous errors at the back.


Centre Back: Mats Hummels (Bayern Munich)

H
Hummels was Bayern's best player across both legs

Mats Hummels did his best to nullify all the dangerous Sevilla attacks. Though Sevilla were not as threatening as most of the other teams left in the competition, the defense still had to maintain their concentration as the Andalusians were capable of hitting against the run of play, as Manchester United found out.

Hummels' positioning and understanding of his partner helped him control the game. His passing from the back was as crisp as ever.

Hummels and Boateng didn't allow Sevilla to create too many clear-cut opportunities and it was crucial for Bayern escaping with a 2-1 win over the two legs.


Left Back: Marcelo (Real Madrid)

Real Madrid v Juventus - UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Second Leg
Marcelo's third goal in Turin proved to be crucial in the end

The Brazilian proved why he is considered the best left-back in the world with his performance in the first leg. His attacking play from the back is second to none and his surging runs created problems for Juventus all-through the tie.

His link-up play with Ronaldo was precise and it enabled Ronaldo to impose himself on the game. He grabbed the crucial third goal in Turin to put serious pressure on Juventus.

He was assured at the back in the first leg when Juventus failed to get going, but when they did, Marcelo was caught out badly and he came up with a poor performance defensively in the second leg at home.

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