5 reasons why Real Madrid will advance past Liverpool and into the semifinals

2. Containing Vinicius has been impossible for the Reds

One of the key battles that surfaced in the first leg, despite the absence of senior defenders in both teams was Vinicius Junior against Trent Alexander-Arnold. The two looked the busiest on the left side of Liverpool’s half. And, it’d be safe to say that there was a definite winner and it was Vini.

Vini’s pace is one of the most vital factors that has served Real Madrid well in the recent games. We saw this in El Clasico too as we did in the match against Liverpool. Vini’s ball receiving and one heavy touch to send it away from the defender and then him running into the free space has become something of his signature style. Of course, coupled with some sickest dribbling skills you’d ever see.

His performance against Liverpool as is evident was top class and he maintained the same through El Clasico. This is why he is expected to start again at Anfield. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that the Brazilian figuratively destroyed Alexander-Arnold to the point that he had to resort to cursing the linesman and committing petty fouls out of frustration as the match went on.

Liverpool’s inability to contain Real Madrid’s young asset in front could be a huge contributing factor to a fifth consecutive win against the Reds. He would be expected to cause problems for Trent Alexander-Arnold who as talked about by football pundits, would be one of the weakest links in the Reds’ defense.