Luka Modric received a standing ovation from the whole of Anfield at 37-years-old, his greatness will never be replicated

Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric received a standing ovation from everyone inside Anfield following a 5-2 victory over Liverpool in the Champions League.

Carlo Ancelotti's side came back from two goals down to all but seal passage to the quarter-finals on Tuesday evening. Vinicius Jr.'s brace cancelled out Darwin Nunez and Mohamed Salah's early efforts, with Madrid not looking back.

Eder Militao headed Los Blancos in front just after the break before Karim Benzema scored two goals of his own to wrap up the win.

At the heart of it all in midfield was Modric, who seems to defy the concept of age season after season.

The 37-year-old once again put in a world class performance on the grandest stage to help Madrid through a tricky opening 15 minutes.

He managed to last until the 87th minute when he was replaced by Toni Kroos. As Modric and Benzema made their way off the pitch, everyone inside the stadium stood up to show their appreciation. You can check it out in the player above.

Despite the result, Liverpool supporters knew they'd seen something special. The away end chanted the Croatia international's name as he embraced Kroos and Marco Asensio coming onto the pitch.

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Fans online have reacted to the footage and they believe few footballers in the world command as much respect as Modric.

One person said: "Just a legendary player you cannot deny it."

Another tweeted: "He put on a masterclass that had to be appreciated."

A third commented: "Very noble considering the scoreline at the time."

While someone added: "We'll never see another player like Luka Modric."

Despite Liverpool's defensive frailties on the night, what can't be denied is the ruthlessness of the reigning La Liga champions.

Ancelotti was quick to stress the tie is not over. He believes Liverpool will be a tricky test when the two teams meet again on March 15.

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He told reporters post-match: "It was not easy, especially seeing how the game started. We did not lose confidence, and little by little we took control of the ball, and were always effective in attack.

"The first part of this tie went well, and in the second leg, we have to think that we have to fight and suffer. It’s not done. Liverpool suffered in the second half, but in the first half we suffered. Overall, I am satisfied because the game was good."

Topics: Liverpool, Real Madrid, Luka Modric, Champions League

Daniel Marland

Daniel is a social editor for SPORTbible after moving from the writing team. Nearly scored past Stormzy at Old Trafford once.

@DanMarland_