The key talking points from Liverpool's 2-0 victory over Villarreal

Liverpool defeated Villarreal 2-0 in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie.

The Reds could not break down the La Liga side in the first-half. However, things changed after the break.

Liverpool found the back of the net 53 minutes into the clash after Jordan Henderson's cross deflected off Villarreal defender Pervis Estupinan.

Shortly after, Sadio Mane doubled the Reds' lead. Below are the key talking points from the match.

Liverpool's patience pays off again

Liverpool had to be patient against Everton at Anfield last weekend. The Toffees sat back and tried to absorb the Reds' pressure. But, Liverpool ended up securing a 2-0 victory.

Villarreal did the same, however, Jurgen Klopp's side proved once again that they have the quality to break down a low block.

Even with the game 0-0 at half-time, we always felt that Liverpool could take a decent lead into the second leg.

The Reds are so potent going forward after all, which is arguably why Henderson believed that things would change.

As quoted by The Daily Star, the Englishman told BT Sport the following: "They are a very organised team, we knew they were going to make it difficult, but it was important for us to remain focused, stay positive and keep moving the ball quick and eventually we would break them down and we did with two good goals."

Henderson's team talk proved to be crucial

Liverpool played reasonably well in the first-half. However, as we have pointed out, they just didn't find the back of the net.

Reds left-back Andy Robertson has revealed that Henderson's positive half-time team talk gave the players the belief they could go on and win the game.

"That was the message from Hendo at half-time and the gaffer (Klopp) at half-time, just saying we were playing well in the first-half, probably the best stuff we’ve played, and we didn’t get a goal for it," the Scotland international told BT Sport, as quoted by Sportskeeda.

"But we kept going, we kept trying to be patient and luckily with a big deflection we managed to get the breakthrough."

Luis Diaz was a handful

Diaz was very lively against Villarreal. Every time the winger got on the ball, you felt something might happen.

Despite the fact that Diaz did not score or register an assist during his 81-minute performance, he still secured a WhoScored player rating of 7.37, which highlights just how well he played.

Diaz would have to be one of the most impressive signings the club has made in the past decade. He is so exciting to watch.

The Anfield atmosphere was brilliant

The atmosphere was brilliant before, during and after the match. To be fair, we weren't surprised to see the Liverpool supporters chanting loudly.

European nights at Anfield always bring out the best of the fans. Even former Red Peter Crouch, who was covering the game for BT Sport, was getting involved with the supporters.

As things stand

Manchester City secured a 4-3 victory over Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie. As things stand, it will be a Liverpool versus City final.

However, we are aware that there is still another match to be played for both clubs. If Liverpool can hold on against Villarreal, they will compete for the European Cup at Stade de France in Paris on the 28th of May.

Hopefully the Reds can find a way to secure an aggregate victory over the La Liga side at the Estadio de la Ceramica next Tuesday night.