Saúl`s early strike gives Atlético Madrid first-leg edge over disjointed Liverpool
(The Guardian Sports News)

Liverpool will not fear having to overturn a deficit against Spanish opposition at Anfield to stay in the Champions League. Indeed, they may thrive on the challenge that awaits on 11 March. But Jürgen Klopp and his players, for all their bullishness post-match, will know from this punishing experience not to expect another Barcelona against Atlético Madrid. The European champions tasted rare defeat due to the fight, resilience and menace in Diego Simeone´s side; qualities Barcelona lacked at Anfield last May and Atlético were supposed to have mislaid this season. But no, they remain a team in the image of their combative and formidable manager.Saúl Ñíguez´s early goal condemned Liverpool to only their third defeat of the campaign (Aston Villa with kids in the Carabao Cup included) and maintained Atlético´s unbeaten record in knockout Champions League home games under Simeone. Continue reading...