Few European ties have been as emotionally charged as the 2005 Champions League semi-final between Chelsea and Liverpool.
Just under two years after Roman Abramovich’s takeover, Chelsea were assembling a star-studded squad under Jose Mourinho, while the Reds were seeking a return to the top of continental football after two decades.
The two-legged tie was decided by a single moment at Anfield – a controversial Luis Garcia goal.
Liverpool were adamant the ball had crossed the line before William Gallas cleared on the goalline, but those of a Chelsea persuasion vehemently disagreed. But in the pre-technology era and replays also inconclusive, only referee Lubos Michel’s opinion mattered.
Liverpool went on to complete an extraordinary comeback in the final against AC Milan to lift the trophy in Istanbul, while their rivalry with Chelsea continued to grow.
