Sofia out to repeat their night of glory
CSKA racistsPMD UEFA TO REPORT CSKA RACISM "Liverpool have been told by UEFA delegate Trygve Borno that he will...
Aug 10 2005
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo
CSKA SOFIA have vowed to summon the ghosts of 1982 to haunt Liverpool in Bulgaria tonight.
When the clubs last met, the Reds were European Champions but lost their crown following a 2-0 away defeat, losing 2-1 on aggregate.
Reminders of one of CSKA's most famous victories have been thrust under Liverpool's nose since their arrival yesterday.
The Bulgarians' European reputation includes a habit of dethroning champions. They also defeated Nottingham Forest in 1981, as well as overcoming the legendary Ajax side when they were European Cup holders in 1974.
However, it's their triumph over Bob Paisley's side 23 years ago which the home side hope will inspire a shock victory in the National Stadium this evening.
Liverpool in 1982.
He believes history can repeat itself tonight.
"In 1982, no-one was expecting us to win against Liverpool but we surprised everyone," he said..
"CSKA has a habit of rising to the occasion. If all the players believe in their ability, anything can happen and we can achieve another great result."
Anfield boss Rafa Benitez believes events two decades ago have little bearing on the outcome this evening.
"I prefer to think about what will happen in the future, not the past," he responded after several reminders of the result in 1982.
However, the Spanish coach knows how tough this fixture is and will welcome any result which gives Liverpool the advantage at Anfield next week.
"We have a lot of respect for their abilities," he said. "You never know in football what can happen. The other two rounds turned out to be easier for us in the end, even though both our opponents played well. This team is stronger. They are compact and have a lot of pace. We must be careful."
Benitez, as ever, is keeping his side a guarded secret. Only 17 first team play-ers were fit enough to travel and he'll make a late decision on whether to be bold and play two strikers, or take the more cautious approach of packing his midfield.
Two other notable absentees on the trip are chairman David Moores and chief executive Rick Parry.
The duo have remained on Merseyside as they seek to secure more recruits ahead of the Premiership kick-off this weekend.
