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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Ian Doyle

Luis Diaz left in tears at full time as Mohamed Salah winds up Villarreal keeper

Liverpool made it to a third Champions League final in five years after a remarkable comeback against Villarreal in Spain.

Fabinho, Luis Diaz and Sadio Mane all scored as the Reds came from 2-0 down to win 3-2 and secure a 5-2 aggregate success in their semi-final. The result means Jurgen Klopp’s side have become the first team ever to reach the finals of the League Cup, FA Cup and Champions League in the same season, while also remaining in the hunt for the Premier League title.

But there was plenty that went unnoticed or under the radar during the 90 minutes at the Estadio de la Ceramica.

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Konate celebration concern

It was far from straightforward at Villarreal for Liverpool. But there was plenty for the Reds to celebrate during the second half as their sensational turnaround was capped by Sadio Mane's strike.

With no Roberto Firmino available, it was left to Virgil van Dijk to produce a high-flying karate kick as he joined the throng of team-mates congratulating the Senegalese.

The Dutchman produced an impressive effort. And it was certainly better than that of Ibrahima Konate, who needs to get to work on his execution back at the AXA Training Centre. Must do better, Ibou.

Diaz tears up

The introduction of Luis Diaz from the bench for the second half was a game-changer for Liverpool, the winger destroying the Villarreal defence with a truly magnificent performance.

And after tearing up the hosts, the achievement of reaching the Champions League final soon hit home after the final whistle with the Colombian spotted in tears on the pitch.

Up in the stands, Diaz's younger brother and agent were on hand to watch the Liverpool man steal the show. It was a memorable night for them all.

Salah puzzled

Liverpool were knocked out of their stride by an electric first-half performance from Villarreal, who grasped the initiative from the very first whistle.

There were few opportunities for the Reds. And when they did find a way through, Mohamed Salah dragged a shot wide after robbing home goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli of possession, a challenge that was ultimately somewhat harshly called a foul by the officials.

Rulli, though, was straight up in the face of Salah, who wore a bemused look at the Argentine was joined by Etienne Capoue in his gripe. Bit of an overreaction, that.

Praising the 'other' Klopp

There have been plenty of heroes for Liverpool supporters to salute this season. And, recently, another has emerged.

Step forward Klopp's wife Ulla, who was in the away end at Manchester City last month and last week hailed by the Reds boss as a chief reason behind him agreeing to pen a new deal keeping him at Anfield until 2026.

And that was enough for one group of fans to produce a banner proclaiming "Ulla Klopp - Scouse Queen". When shown the banner, the Liverpool manager couldn't help but break into a beaming smile.

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