Liverpool look to join Real in Champions League final
What's the story
Liverpool will be out to get past AS Roma in their semi-final second leg of the UEFA Champions League at Rome's Olimpico. The Reds enjoy a 5-2 cushion from the first leg, but know Roma could be dangerous at home especially after turning the tables against Barcelona. The winner will be up against Real Madrid. Los Blancos qualified for their third successive finale.
Team news
Team selection and updates
Liverpool have a number of injury woes with the likes of Adam Lallana, Emre Can and Joel Matip all being unavailable. Defender Joe Gomez too has joined the list after picking an injury against Stoke City over the weekend. Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain is already out with a season-ending knee injury. Sadio Mane is in the squad though. Roma's Diego Perotti and Kevin Strootman might miss-out.
Red-hot form
A battle between Roma's defense against in-form Reds trio
Roma have not conceded a single goal at home this season in the UCL. Having said that, Liverpool have scored in every away fixture in Europe's most coveted tournament. The in-form Liverpool trio of Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane have accounted for 30 goals between them in the UCL. Both Salah and Firmino are in touching distance of a new record.
Security
Both teams urge fans to stay away from violence
After a Liverpool supporter was attacked by Roma fans last week prior to the first leg tie, security measures have been beefed up in Rome. Reports claim that at least 3,000 police officers will be deployed to maintain security. The fan is in critical condition and the police have stated that they can keep the atmosphere in check provided everybody follows the Italian rules.
Twitter Post
Great gesture from Roma!
Forza Sean #ASRoma pic.twitter.com/TCxvJJB7UQ
— AS Roma (@OfficialASRoma) May 1, 2018
Information
What have the managers said?
Roma boss Eusebio di Francesco claimed that the club is still concerned by the attack on the Liverpool fan last week and appealed to the fans to come and enjoy the game. Jurgen Klopp stated that Liverpool deserve a place in the final.
Numbers game
Stat attack: Roma vs Liverpool
Liverpool haven't lost to Roma in Europe (W2, D2). The Reds have won six out of their seven visits to Italy in Europe. Liverpool have scored 38 goals in the UCL which is a club record this season. Klopp's side are the only unbeaten team in this season's UCL. Salah has found the net in each of his last five UCL starts for Liverpool.