Carlo Ancelotti explains why 'You'll Never Walk Alone' played at Bernabeu after game

Real Madrid's decision to play 'You'll Never Walk Alone' after they beat Liverpool in the Champions League was a show of respect from the hosts.

Los Blancos sealed their place in the quarter-finals of Europe's elite competition after a 78th minute goal from Karim Benzema sealed a relatively straightforward 1-0 win at the Bernabeu.

But even before a ball was kicked on Wednesday night, the last-16 tie was all but over after Carlo Ancelotti's thumped Liverpool for five at Anfield on February 21.

It was a resounding win for the hosts, who decided to pay a classy tribute to their opponents by playing their song 'You'll Never Walk Alone' over the PA system at full-time.

Initially, the decision raised eyebrows amongst some supporters, with suggestions that it was seen as 'disrespectful' after they beat their opponents 6-2 on aggregate.

But in his post-match interview, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti explained the full-time scenes.

"The tribute to Liverpool has been very good because they are a gentlemen's club," he told Movistar. "They honored Amancio in the first leg and it's a fair gesture from our club towards them."

Ahead to the first leg at Anfield last month, Liverpool laid flowers in tribute to Madrid legend Amancio Amaro following his death, aged 83.

Jurgen Klopp also commented on the decision to play Liverpool's famous anthem, saying: "It's a very nice gesture from the Bernabeu, it's very nice to play against each other."

The travelling support, meanwhile, applauded Madrid for playing the song at the final whistle, while Los Blancos fans applauding the visitors.

La Liga commentator Phil Kitromilides posted scenes from the full-time whistle on Twitter.

"Pretty special moment at full time whistle," he said. "Real Madrid playing You'll Never Walk Alone on the tannoy as a gesture of thanks to Liverpool for their gesture of support following the death of Madrid honorary president Amancio Amaro before the first leg."

Thoughts on the gesture? Let us know in the comments.

READ MORE:

• Why Real Madrid's seats behind the goal at Santiago Bernabeu are covered up

Featured Image Credit: CBS Sports/Twitter

Topics: Real Madrid, Liverpool, Champions League

Jack Kenmare

Senior Journalist at SPORTbible with a passion for long-form journalism. Almost 10 years’ experience across online and print.

@jackkenmare_