(Football news) Liverpool defeated Benfica 3-1 away from home in the first leg of the UCL quarter finals. The Merseyside club will now take a 2 goal advantage to fortress Anfield. It was a dominant performance by Jurgen Klopp's men who are now on a 5 game win streak. Klopp decided to start former Porto man Luis Diaz along with Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane because of his experience of playing against Benfica.

Liverpool were immediately on the front foot after kick off. Ibrahim Konate opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a header from Andy Robertson's corner. 17 minutes later, Trent Alexander-Arnold played a beautiful cross field ball which was headed across goal by Luis Diaz for Sadio Mane to tap in. 4 minutes into the 2nd half, Rafa Silva setup Darwin Nunez who pulled a goal back for the home side. In the 87th minute, Naby Keita split the Benfica defence by playing an inch perfect through ball which Luis Diaz slotted in the back of the net.

The decision to start Diaz ahead of Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino worked out really well as the Columbian scored one and assisted another. Liverpool's full backs once again played a very important part in their win. The sheer difference they make in attack is an invaluable asset for the reds. Mohamed Salah had a rare off day where he didn't really trouble the Benfica defenders and also missed a clear one on one opportunity. Liverpool play Manchester City in the potential Premier League title decider before hosting the return fixture. Liverpool are heavy favourites with a 2 goal lead to add to the Anfield advantage. Benfica will need something extra special to turn the tie around. Liverpool are in with a chance of winning the coveted quadruple. 

Also read: City secure slender lead in first leg win over Atletico Madrid