Reds outclass Bayern Munich to progress in Champions League

It was one of those occasions when Liverpool reminded themselves why a banner can usually be seen at their games proclaiming the club to be “European football royalty.” And, finally, when it was all over, Jürgen Klopp and his players could celebrate and, for the first time since 2009, the Premier League had its fourth team in the quarter-finals.

Not that Liverpool’s euphoria at the final whistle was, in any way, couched on behalf of their domestic rivals. This team have their own priorities, as five-time winners of this competition, and they could reflect on a hugely satisfying night of mature and controlled football. They defended stoutly, they were clinical with their chances, they never showed a flicker of trepidation and, more than anything, they demonstrated the value at this level of scoring away goals.

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Scoreless draw leaves Bayern Munich Champions League tie in balance

Jurgen Klopp’s consolation from a generally unsatisfying Anfield stalemate is a positive historic omen.

The last time Bayern Munich earned a goalless draw in this stadium - in this competition - Liverpool not only emerged victorious from the tie, they won the European Cup.

That was 38 years ago. The modern Bayern will know better to take second leg victory for granted in the same way as that which cost the side inspired by Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. The German champions have waited a long time for their chance to avenge that painful exit and will feel they have the platform. 

Perhaps that is why both sides showed content with the messy draw, the game failing to live up to its billing, neither side willing to take unnecessary risks in pursuit of that critical first strike. We hoped for a reconstruction of the Dortmund v Bayern epics Klopp was accustomed to in his Bundesliga years, or the verve witnessed at Anfield last season. 

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Robben reveals unhappy Anfield memories

Arjen Robben says Anfield is his "worst stadium" as he prepares to return there with Bayern Munich on Tuesday.

Robben has suffered three Champions League eliminations at the home of Liverpool, twice with Chelsea in 2005 and 2007 and with Real Madrid in 2009.

The former Dutch international is battling to overcome a thigh injury ahead of Bayern's last-16 tie and admits he has unhappy memories of playing at the iconic venue.

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