Anfield legend Rush backs Liverpool for Champions League glory
Liverpool’s all-time top goalscorer, Ian Rush, believes the Reds can emerge victorious from their Champions League final showdown with Real Madrid.
The Spanish club are defending champions and chasing a record 13th European crown after winning in three of the last four years.
But Rush, who knows a thing or two about winning on the continent, having twice lifted the European Cup with Liverpool in 1981 and 1984, believes the Reds can overcome their opponents, who have not been at their untouchable best throughout this year’s campaign.
Rush said: “Madrid have the benefit of experience, they know how to win this tournament and experience does count.
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“But in the quarter-finals this season, Juventus hammered them in the second leg and Madrid got that little bit of luck.
“In the semi-final, Bayern Munich had plenty of chances to win it, but they didn’t take their chances.
“I do think Liverpool will have chances to win, but they have to make sure they take them, because Madrid are a clinical side.”
Liverpool’s front three have been in dazzling goal scoring touch this season, with Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino both netting 10 times in this year’s competition, and Sadio Mane bagging nine.
Salah scored his 32nd goal of the Premier League season against Brighton and the Egyptian could be crucial in Kiev on Saturday.
However, as Rush points out, with such talented attacking players on show at Liverpool and five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo leading the line for Madrid, strong defensive performances may well settle the tie.
Rush said: “Both sides have got so much attacking quality, but I think it will be the side that defends the best who will win.
“I think both sides will score and we talk about the attacks a lot, but the defenders are the ones who will win this final.”
Successive
The coaches will also have a big say in determining the winner and Madrid’s head coach Zinedine Zidane holds the upper hand over Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp in terms of success in the Champions League, on course for a third successive title.
Rush said: “Madrid have the benefit of experience, they know how to win this tournament and experience does count.
“But Jurgen Klopp is making his players believe that they can win, telling them that they can become legends, alongside all the greats who have won this trophy.
“If Liverpool can win on Saturday, I think they will go on to bigger and better things, but it’s just a question of getting over that line.”
Whatever the result on Saturday, a few players from both sides will meet up a week later at Anfield as Brazil take on Croatia in a friendly international ahead of the World Cup.
Firmino and Dejan Lovren will be out in force for the Reds, while Casemiro, Marcelo and Luka Modric could all turn out from Madrid.
Rush said: “The game will be a showcase for Anfield, but it’s very exciting for the fans as well.
“Brazil have got such great depth in the squad and incredible talent in the side.
“It will be a great match for all supporters and hopefully the players put on a really entertaining game.”
Brazil take on Croatia in a FIFA World Cup warm-up at Anfield on Saturday, 3 June (KO 3pm). Tickets from £30 Adults/£10 Under-16s are on sale at www.liverpoolfc.com/tickets
