Steven Gerrard has crowned Liverpool’s stunning Champions League victory in Istanbul as the “best night” of his life.
Every Red fan knows the story: down and out, half-time, humiliation. That was the case against AC Milan 18 years ago until a Gerrard-inspired Liverpool fought back from three goals down to clinch a historic fifth European title.
A crazy six minutes saw the former skipper drag Rafa Benitez’s side back into the game, scoring the first before winning the penalty to equalise moments later. Gerrard earned the man-of-the-match award and a FIFA World Player of the Year nomination for his heroics.
Fast forward to the present and the 2023 final allowed Gerrard to return to the venue which hosted his finest hour. Ahead of Manchester City’s clash with Inter Milan, the Liverpool legend admitted Istanbul “changed” his life for the better.
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“I think so (whether the game changed his life). In terms of my profile around Europe and the world, it’s games like tonight that can change anyone’s life,” Gerrard told BT Sport.
“It can take you and propel you to the next level. All these guys have played in big games where, if you stand out and you have big moments, it takes your profile to the next level.
“This was the best night of my life in terms of football. I hadn’t been back until yesterday, it was a really special feeling when I walked back into the stadium and to see it now full of fans has a different feeling. You can feel the energy, you can tell we’re close to kick-off. I’m looking forward to the game.”
Gerrard also singled out ex-goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek for rescuing Liverpool with a miraculous double save in extra time - before denying Andriy Shevchenko again in the penalty shoot-out. He added: "(Dudek) made a save on the night which is probably the best save I’ve ever seen live, or been involved in.
“Shevchenko is a hero of mine - somebody I’ve looked up to for many, many years. He decided to go for the clever penalty and we were on the lucky end. The best night of my life in terms of football, for sure.”
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