Liverpool’s dream of reaching an all-English Europa League final was shattered by Atletico Madrid striker Diego Forlan in extra-time at Anfield on Thursday night.
Liverpool won 2-1 on the night but Forlan’s late goal meant Atletico go through, 2-2 on aggregate, but winning on away goals.
An electric Anfield was sent into raptures just before half-time when Alberto Aquilani squeezed home Yossi Benayoun’s cross to level the semi-final tie. Creator turned provider when Benyoun burst into the box to power home Liverpool’s second goal four minutes into extra-time.
Disaster struck for the Reds however with nine minutes remaining in the tie as Forlan had time and space to finish past a helpless Pepe Reina and send Liverpool packing.
Atletico now go on to meet Fulham in the final on 12 May in Hamburg.
