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June 07, 2018, 06:39:01 AM |
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I have to say that Ramos was a key player in deciding the game. I will say that Ramos probably didn't expect to take Salah out of the game, but from the way he took down Salah it was clear that it was his intention to rough up and harm Liverpool's star player. Ramos clearly had time to release Salah's arm as they fell, and the way he turned his body and pulled Salah's arm towards him shows his aggressive attention. Once Salah came off in tears, Ramos was more satisfied than sorry, further angering Liverpool fans and neutrals alike. Now, not only did Ramos take Salah out of the game, but he also intentionally elbowed Loris Karius in the face just after half-time. Although I will say that Karius' concussion claim does seem to be a small excuse, this incident highlights just how dirty of a player Sergio Ramos is. I remember last year's final when Ramos tricked the ref into giving Juventus' Juan Cuadrado a red card, while this year he similarly earned Sadio Mane a yellow. I can see that Ramos' reputation as being a dirty player is well deserved and built on hard fact.
Bringing the focus back to the game itself, I'd say that it was a completely different game before and after Salah came off. The first 30 minutes was all Liverpool, with the Reds constantly pushing forward and looking sharp in both defense and attack. It seemed only a matter of time before Liverpool would get their deserved goal until Sergio Ramos played his card. After Salah left the field, Liverpool seemed slightly dazed and off-key, but they still held their ground until Loris Karius' shocking blunder. Even after the blunder they continued to fight, equalizing through Sadio Mane a few minutes later. Bale's wonder goal was a setback, but by no means an end to the game, yet another Karius mistake effectively ended the contest.
I think that the main factors that contributed to Real's win are the following:
1. Sergio Ramos taking out Mo Salah 2. Loris Karius' mistakes 3. Bale's wonder goal 4. Liverpool's lack of depth (talented depth) in their squad 5. Real Madrid's experience - they know how to win and will do anything to win (some may call it being dirty, but others will say it is being smart; either way, it won them the title)
Whatever the result, I have to say that Liverpool were a joy to watch this season in the Champions League, and they really are a team to admire. I wish them luck as they rebuild and look to go one step further.
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