Qarabağ made a surprise by eliminating Braga in the previous round. Can Qarabağ make another surprise? Bayer Leverkusen earned a 2-2 draw in the Round of 16 first leg away to Qarabag. Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen are on course for a first Bundesliga title, 10 points clear of Bayern Munich at the top of the table.
Leverkusen nearly lost the match and their unbeatable streak was nearly broken but finally Schick helped them to equalize the match and avoid a loss. Leverkusen will play a second match as a host in Germany. It will be their advantage but through this first match, Qarabağ actually warned Leverkusen that they won't easily accept a loss in Germany.
Liverpool always shows performance that exceeds everyone's expectations. Although everyone was worried that Liverpool might be a little weaker because Salah might not play in that match. But it turns out Liverpool remained strong even before Salah played. I was also happy to see Salah able to play again even though he only played for approximately 16 minutes. But it could be preparation for him for a tougher match against Man City in the EPL. In the European League, it seems Liverpool is safe. Because in the second leg Liverpool will definitely play without any emotional burden. Because they can play more comfortably and it is even possible that Liverpool will score more goals when they host the second leg.
Playing home away without a best squad because of player injuries, Liverpool still destroyed Sparta Prague and they will have an easy second leg match at home. This big win will help Liverpool to more easily prepare for a second match and they will have more focus on Premier League matches which are more important for them.
Klopp is going to have a good season with Liverpool but still titles at the end will decide it is a successful season and happy ending for him in Anfield. Anyway, Klopp with his years in Anfield and in this season, actually contributes a lot to grow up many young players in Liverpool. These young players will be future of Liverpool when they will no longer have Klopp as their coach.