Benitez: Disappointed

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Rafa Benitez felt that his side were unfortunate to be knocked out of the UEFA Champions League by Chelsea.

The Liverpool boss saw his side lose 3-2 in an epic encounter at Stamford Bridge, a result which saw the Blues progress to the final with a 4-3 aggregate win.

The Reds dominated the game for long periods, and their manager is adamant that it could just as easily have been them celebrating a trip to Moscow.

Control

"I thought we were very close," Benitez told Sky Sports.

"They were playing well, we were playing well, especially the second half.

"With the first goal, when we drew level, we had two chances and in extra-time we were much better.

"But after that we conceded the second goal, and the third goal finished the game."

"For me there was massive difference when we scored.

"We had control of the game. We had two chances in extra time, we were in control, and when you are creating opportunities you are not giving them any option,

"But at the end of the day a penalty second goal and the third goal was the end,"

Injured

Benitez also confirmed that he had withdrawn Fernando Torres immediately after Chelsea scored their second as the Spanish striker was struggling with an injury.

"He had problems in his hamstring," he said.

In the aftermath of pre-match criticism Didier Drogba grabbed a brace to see Chelsea home, but Bentitez is adamant that the striker was not driven on by his diving accusations.

"I don't think so," said the Reds boss.

"When you play in the semi-finals of the Champions League you are not thinking about anything else.

"It's just to play as well as you can."