2 Liverpool v AC Milan
A very well-known story for football fans, but still deserves it’s place in the top five football underdogs. Liverpool were 3-0 down at half time to the best side in Europe, AC Milan. The Brazilian Kaka had tormented Liverpool’s defenders in the first half setting up Hernan Crespo for his second to put Milan 3-0 up at the break.
The Liverpool fans spent the half time interval roaring out their anthem You’ll Never Walk Alone in an attempt to lift their team.
What happened in the second half is well known to all football fans. In a blistering six minute spell, Liverpool scored three times to level the game. Their inspirational captain, Steven Gerrard started the comeback nodding in a cross from John Arne Riise. Moments later, Czech international Vladimir Smicer scored with a speculative effort from outside the box. The game had barely restarted before Gerrard was pulled down in the AC Milan penalty area to win a penalty. Xabi Alonso saw his spot kick saved by Dida but reacted first to smash the rebound into the roof of the net.
Milan were stunned but composed themselves and began another onslaught on Liverpool’s goal. Chance after chance was created by the Italians but they couldn’t find a way through. A goal line clearance from Djimi Traore and unbelievable goalkeeping from Jerzy Dudek forced the game to a penalty shootout.
Liverpool held their nerve from 12 yards and Milan needed their star striker Shevchenko to score to keep them in the shootout. He saw his shot palmed away by Dudek and Liverpool had won the Champions League.
It was the most unlikely comeback from a near impossible position and such a revival will surely never be seen again.
Read our Liverpool v AC Milan Classic Match report