The Brazilian midfielder’s magic brought Liverpool a cushion at a stage when Manchester United’s fighting spirit suggested a Europa revival was in the airIt was Brendan Rodgers who labelled Philippe Coutinho “the magician” and Jürgen Klopp benefited from a touch of sorcery from the Brazilian as Liverpool advanced into the final eight of the Europa League. Coutinho had craved a first goal against Manchester United following five fruitless appearances in the fixture. His moment,when it finally arrived, was timed to perfection.
Liverpool were in desperate need of inspiration, and creativity and class when their No10 took possession deep inside United territory on the stroke of half-time. Within seconds he had delivered on all counts. For 44 minutes Liverpool had struggled to contain Louis van Gaal’s initially resurgent team to an Anthony Martial penalty and,in stark contrast to the dominant first leg at Anfield, they were indebted to United’s profligacy.
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Source: theguardian.com