Former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso believes Liverpool may have met their "mentality monsters" match in Real Madrid.
The term has become synonymous with Jurgen Klopp 's Reds in recent years, as they've consistently challenged for the biggest honours in the game and have produced numerous dramatic victories along the way.
On Saturday, they will go in search of more silverware when they face the Spanish giants in the Champions League final. Victory would see the Reds win their seven European Cup, while Madrid are chasing a remarkable 14th.
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Speaking to BT Sport, Alonso hailed the mindset of both teams:
"I love when Jurgen says they are 'mentality monsters', because what they are doing is not easy, it's not just this year," said the former Spain international. "It's what they have been doing for the last few years and they have that mentality.
"But another thing is the final. The final is a big one and when you need to show that mentality. Because the other one - Madrid - they are [the] other mentality monsters. So [it will be] a big, big clash that we are going to enjoy."
Madrid's never-say-die attitude was on display in the semi-final, when they scored twice after the 90th minute to salvage their tie with Manchester City. Karim Benzema's extra time penalty then proved to be enough for Carlo Ancelotti's team to win the tie on aggregate.
"Especially the last one against City," said Alonso, referencing that iconic night at the Santiago Bernabeu as an example of Madrid's fortitude.
"I believed that when they received the first goal from Rodrygo, City players got in shock. Like 'wow, no please, it can't happen again.'
"Madrid doesn't wait. They punch you one side, then the other and then you are on the floor and then they are under control. It was beautiful. It was beautiful to see such a beautiful game."
The midfielder enjoyed an illustrious career, during which he sampled Champions League success with both Liverpool and Real Madrid.
Alonso was part of the Reds' miraculous win in Istanbul in 2005, before nine years later he helped Madrid secure their much-coveted 10th European Cup.
"I am kind of in the middle with both teams," said Alonso ahead of the upcoming showdown in Paris. "So I will win whatever happens!
"Both great teams. Both deserve [it]. I will feel for one to not get it, but whatever happens - Madrid they will win and Liverpool will win in the future. We will see, it's the Champions League final so just enjoy."
