The Champions League is almost impossible to defend. Only a Cristiano Ronaldo-inspired Real Madrid have managed it, winning the title three years in a row between 2016 and 2018.
Even the great Barcelona side of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi failed to retain the trophy. So, it’s perhaps no surprise that Liverpool, champions last year, were knocked out this time in the round of 16 by a resolute and tactically inspired Atletico Madrid.
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