[lfc-news] Real Betis v Liverpool

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Real Betis v Liverpool 12/09/05
http://www.soccer365.com/EUROPEAN_NEWS/Match_Previews/page_127_104958.shtml
Liverpool's Spanish stars are united in their warning that Real Betis
present a very serious threat in the Anfield club's Champions League Group
stage opener.

Full-back Josemi claims Betis is "one of the toughest places to play in
Spain" while midfielder Xabi Alonso said "no one should under-estimate how
hard it will be".

But the pair, along with Spain goalkeeper Jose Reina believe Liverpool can
claim a vital first away win in the group.

"We all know a lot about Betis. They are an excellent team and they will
make it hard for us. But everyone we face now will be even more determined
to beat us," said Josemi.

"We are the European champions, we are a big target. We know that and we
will be ready to match anyone we face.

"Betis is not an easy place to go and play football.

"They are excellent going forward. In Joaquin they have one of the most
dangerous attackers in the whole of Spain. He has lots of speed and is very
direct, and he provides great service for the other forwards and is one of
the players we will have to watch closely.

"They have lots of options in attack but I do think they are vulnerable at
the back and I see no reason why we cannot get our campaign off to the best
possible start."

Reina is confident of success, adding: "To play my first Champions League
game back home in Spain is very special for me.

"We know how Betis play and I am sure we can do well against them. We must
forget we are European champions and think only of each game without the
trophy weighing us down."

And Alonso believes striker Peter Crouch can be a major threat. He said:
"Crouch is not only a big target man he also has good quality on the ball.

"He can head the ball, keep possession and give the team time to get
forward. And he is intelligent as a player.

"He will make it difficult for the Betis defenders, their central defenders
are all under 6ft tall. It will be difficult for them against him."

Betis have been hit by the injury to experienced defender Luis Fernandez,
who ruptured a muscle in his left leg in the weekend win over Osasuna and
he is definitely out of the match.

Highly-rated winger Joaquin damaged a knee in the same match and is also a
doubt.

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