Liverpool's most memorable cult heroes in the Champions League
In this article we focus on two of the biggest Champions League cult heroes across Liverpool’s successful European footballing history. Whether it be crucial goals or standout moments, we shine a spotlight on those players responsible for some of the biggest moments across Liverpool's Champions League history.
Luis García
When Liverpool fans look back at some of their fondest Anfield memories in the Champions League, their 1-0 win over Chelsea in the second-leg of the 2004-05 semi-final may be one that comes to mind. The match-winner for the Reds was a true Liverpool cult hero in Luis García. Signed from Barcelona, there was plenty of excitement over the Spaniard when he joined Rafa Benitez's side.
García went on to becoming a key figure for Liverpool in the Champions League, scoring a brilliant half-volley from long-range against Juventus in the 2004-25 quarter-finals before that famous 'Ghost Goal' vs Chelsea in the last four.
Without the crucial contributions of García, Liverpool wouldn't have secured their fifth Champions League trophy in Istanbul. Cult hero status assured!
Divock Origi
Belgian striker Divock Origi could never establish himself as a regular starter whilst at Liverpool, but there was no player under Jurgen Klopp more capable of popping up with a goal on the big occasion than Origi. Liverpool fans will always hold Origi in the highest regard for his ability to score crucial goals either as a starter or from the bench.
The most important Champions League goal scored by Divock Origi came off the bench in the 2018-19 final between Liverpool and Tottenham. Origi was brought on by Klopp just before the hour mark to replace Roberto Firmino with the score at 1-0 and it seemed inevitable that the Belgian would have his say.
With just a few minutes or normal time to go in Madrid, Origi popped up to net Liverpool's second goal with a left-footed strike inside the box, sealing Champions League number six for the Reds. Goals such as this ensure Origi's cult hero moniker on Merseyside despite him never being a first-choice selection.
