"That's vital..." - Carragher believes Liverpool can pull off Real Madrid comeback if one thing happens

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has outlined a key factor which can help the Reds to overturn their three-goal deficit against Real Madrid in the Champions League last 16.

Liverpool take on Carlo Ancelotti's side inside the Bernabeu looking to achieve a feat no other side has been able to do in the current format of the Champions League.

Jurgen Klopp's side lost 5-2 at Anfield in the first leg last month after going 2-0 up inside the first 20 minutes, with defensive and midfield frailties on show.

It is a huge task for the Reds to score the goals they need, especially against the reigning Champions League holders.

Carragher believes Liverpool can pull it off - but will need to ensure that, aside from the goals themselves, one part of their game plan is perfect.

Carragher on Liverpool comeback

The Sky Sports pundit was part of the side that famously won the 2005 final against AC Milan - who were then coached by Ancelotti - after being 3-0 down at half-time.

And, referencing that famous second half in Istanbul, Carragher is adamant that Liverpool must score the first goal of the contest against Real to have any chance of progressing.

He told The Athletic: "The challenge facing Liverpool isn't as big as the one facing us back then.

"We only had 45 minutes to turn around from three goals down but this Liverpool team have 90 minutes. That's why I'd say Istanbul has the edge even if they pull this one off [at the Bernabeu].

"The biggest thing is that Liverpool have to score the first goal on the night. That's vital.

"They have to start fast. Pulling one back gives you belief and something to build on. That's what happened to us with the header from Steven Gerrard."

During another of their infamous comebacks, the 4-0 Champions League semi-final second leg win over Barcelona in 2019, the Reds also scored early at Anfield.

Needing to bounce back from their 3-0 defeat at Camp Nou in the first leg, Divock Origi opened the scoring on seven minutes to give Liverpool something to hold on to. Three second half goals were enough to secure a 4-3 aggregate victory, with Origi and Georginio Wijnaldum both scoring twice.