Liverpool advanced to the Champions League quarter-finals with a 2-1 aggregate triumph, despite being defeated 1-0 at Anfield by 10-man Inter.
The Italian champions had a chance after Lautaro Martinez’s magnificent shot just after the hour, but Alexis Sanchez was sent off moments later, and Liverpool progressed.
Jurgen Klopp’s side’s unbeaten run dates back to last year, but they won’t be too concerned because the hard effort they put in at the San Siro was decisive.
Inter’s Simone Inzaghi’s side had been competitive in the first leg, conceding only two efforts on target to Liverpool, and they put up another strong showing here.
Prior to Martinez’s goal, however, it was Liverpool who came closest to scoring, with Joel Matip hitting the ball against the crossbar and Mohamed Salah striking the foot of the post.
Liverpool didn’t need to force the game at Anfield with a two-goal advantage from the first leg, and with their offside trap keeping Inter at away, it appeared comfortable enough.
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That changed when Martinez beat Alisson from long range, and the home supporters became nervous. The momentum shifted quickly after Sanchez’s second yellow card.
In the first half, the former Manchester United and Arsenal striker was fortunate to just receive a yellow card for pulling blood from Thiago with his studs.
The foul that got him sent off wasn’t nearly as terrible – he caught Fabinho on the follow-through after winning the ball – but Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp was adamant that it was the only decision the referee could make.
“It’s a foul if you can’t get the ball without endangering an opponent,” Klopp explained. “And he had a hard time catching him. He was fortunate not to get sent off for a first-half foul on Thiago.”
In the last quarter of the game, Liverpool had no more worries as they continued to dominate a tired Inter squad, with Salah hitting the post for the second time.
Luis Diaz was disallowed in stoppage time as well, although the decision was more annoying than decisive.
Klopp later added, “These days may happen.” “All we have to do now is be better the next time.”
Fortunately for Liverpool, there will be another chance. Their journey in the Champions League continues.
