Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool must play “two super games” to progress through their Champions League round-of-16 tie against holders Real Madrid, who he reckons “don’t have to play their best” to advance.
The Reds have recovered from their disappointing defeat at Wolves in early February by claiming important wins over Everton and Newcastle to get their form back on track ahead of Tuesday’s massive first leg at Anfield.
Klopp says his side’s form might have turned at just when they needed it, to take on Real Madrid the 14-time Champions League winners.
“With the recent history and [both clubs] quite successful in the competition, difficult to play against, grinding results out, it will be a top football game,” said Klopp.
“I’m really happy we can play now, four weeks ago it would have been different, but life is all about timing. Maybe we’ve found our feet right in time for this game even though I would have expected us to be ourselves if we hadn’t won the last two games because it’s a different competition and you have to use this opportunity.
“We have these two results and hopefully we can build on that but we need to play a super game, we need to play two super games, to be honest, to get through.
“I have no problem with that because if you don’t play your best you don’t have a chance – Real Madrid don’t have to play their best and still have a chance! That’s the difference. That’s pretty special. I can’t wait.”
