Klopp: I have absolute respect for Real. I have a huge respect for Klopp

Real Madrid versus Liverpool is not just a rematch of last year’s final, but also a clash between the first and third most successful teams in the Champions League. Coach Jürgen Klopp has expressed great respect for the Madrid players.

Liverpool can’t take on Real Madrid. Out of the last 7 matches, it has lost 6 duels, the only one ended in a goalless draw.

Twice more, they had to endure defeat in the Champions League final and when the Reds got another chance for revenge in the eighth round, they took a beating.

They had a dream start. Already in the 14th minute they were 2-0 up thanks to goals from Núñez and Salah, especially down the right side, Anfield continued to threaten. But Liverpool went all out, letting in five goals and going into the rematch at a big disadvantage.

However, the ability of Real’s players to turn games around and remain calm in adverse situations is admirable. And Liverpool coach Jürgen Klopp highlighted it in his press conference ahead of the duel in the Spanish capital.

“Fabinho was right, Real Madrid can smell blood. They don’t lose conviction or confidence, they lose 0:2 at Anfield and nobody can tell the difference. It’s an incredible strength of the team, they have won so much in recent years that almost nothing can upset them in a negative sense. And I absolutely admire that,” said Klopp.

“It’s all about a winning mentality. Madrid have my absolute respect, they are a fantastic team. They have players on the pitch who have won the Champions League five times,” the German coach continued.

“It is absolutely crazy how Luka Modric is still playing, he will probably play until 45. Toni Kroos is just over 30, Karim Benzema looks like he can play another 3-4 seasons, they are incredible players. They brought in young players like Tchouaméni, wow, they have an incredible team,” Klopp added.

The rematch at the Santiago Bernabéu is scheduled for tonight at 9pm. Liverpool need to win by 3 goals to take the game to at least extra time.

Source: UEFA, Liverpool