Liverpool visited Spartak Moscow on Tuesday in what promised to be a special Champions League night for Jürgen Klopp’s side. However, in the 22nd minute Fernando gave the Russian side a shock lead with an impressive free kick.
Even with Philippe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mané and Mohamed Salah in the starting lineup, Liverpool failed to add to their quick equalizer. It was Coutinho who scored after a well articulated move.
The minutes went by and the score didn’t change. However, the match was not without drama. There were plenty of chances for Liverpool to take the lead in the last few minutes, but they were at times unlucky and at times plagued by outright bad decision-making and poor finishing.
In fact, they were granted an unusually large chance at redemption. Have you ever wondered what you would do if on the very last day of your life, someone offered you an unexpected and considerable amount of added time?
Would you try to make the most of it and take a shot at the things in life you missed?
Well, Liverpool just happened to be in that situation. After a whole match in which they dominated possession, the Reds were granted eight minutes of added time . . . (EIGHT MINUTES!)
The uncommonly long stoppage-time was due to Spartak Moscow goalkeeper Artyom Rebrov coming off the field injured after a clash with Salah.
So you’d think Liverpool would profit from the opportunity. They didn’t.
While Spartak Moscow seemed rather satisfied with the draw, it was frustration that prevailed for the Reds. Just look at poor old Jürgen Klopp banging his brains out in disbelief.
Liverpool sit second in the group with two points, followed by Spartak in third. Sevilla top the group.