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After dramatic matches, the moods of both team coaches were as different as day and night. Coach Rafael Benitez had only good words for the team, while strategist Carlo Ancelotti could not find a way to explain the reasons for the defeat.
R.Benitez: "We did it for the fans"
"I can't put into words what I'm feeling right now," the Spaniard said just after the victory. - "During halftime, we knew we needed to change the game. When we conceded a goal in the first minute and it was very difficult, we also lost Harry Kewell."
"It was very difficult, but the players believed in victory and won. I'm proud of the players. Steven Gerrard is the most important person, his mentality is exactly what we want."
The coach also noted that this was one of the most significant moments of his career and did not forget to thank the large number of "Liverpool" fans gathered in Turkey.
C.Ancelotti: "That's football"
"In those six minutes (between the 54th and 60th minute "Liverpool" equalized - ed. note) we were stupidly punished. It's inexplicable, as we played very well for the remaining time."
"Now is not the time to blame anyone, we are disappointed and sorry, but that's football. Congratulations to Liverpool for holding on and winning the cup."
"We have one more match to play, and then we can start thinking about the new season."
Steven Gerrard: "Can I leave after such a night?"
The team captain and one of the main heroes of the victory, Steven Gerrard, rejoicing in the trophy, also spoke about the future at Liverpool club. Although he is of interest to almost all the strongest teams in Europe, the midfielder wants to stay in Liverpool.
"How can I leave after such a night?" the footballer rhetorically asked. "Winning trophies is the best feeling in the world."
"When we were trailing 3-0, I thought there would be tears on my face after the final, but it turned out to be the happiest day of my life. I'm very proud of the team." Speaking about the future in England, S. Gerrard said: "Although negotiations on the contract have not been going on for long, everything is going well."
The captain also had only good words for the fans and was happy to celebrate the victory with around 40,000 fans in Turkey.
