REAL MADRID could lose their Champions League final clash against Liverpool if one thing happens, according to Xabi Alonso.
REAL MADRID could lose their Champions League final clash against Liverpool if one thing happens, according to Xabi Alonso.
Real Madrid and Liverpool face off in the Champions League final on Saturday, with the Reds underdogs going into the game.
Jurgen Klopp’s side have enjoyed a fine European campaign, beating the likes of Porto, Manchester City and Roma in the knockout stages.
Real Madrid will be favourites, however, with the club taking part in their third straight final under Zinedine Zidane.
Alonso turned out for both clubs during his career before retiring last summer.
And the former Spain international thinks Real could lose if Liverpool are emotionally prepared for the match.
“They have to prepare for the game very well because Real Madrid have all the experience,” Alonso told AFP.
“For all the Liverpool players it will be their first Champions League final.
“They have to deal with this emotional side which is almost as important as the football side.
“If they can get the right balance between the excitement and the motivation, that will be the right way to approach this final.”
Liverpool’s best hopes will come in the form of their formidable front three.
Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane have all enjoyed devastating campaigns.
And Alonso thinks they have the potential to cause Real problems in Kiev.
“Whenever they have space, Real need to control them,” said Alonso.
“They are able to attack through the middle of the pitch, they can connect with short passes very well, they combine very well.
“They are definitely one of the biggest strengths of Liverpool at the moment.”
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