Liverpool punches way to UCL quarterfinals

By Can Erozden

ANKARA (AA) - Liverpool booked a place in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals with a 3-1 victory Wednesday against Bayern Munich.

Senegalese winger Sadio Mane dribbled past Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and put the ball into Bayern’s net for the 1-0 lead.

Mane's opener changed Bayern's plans, making the Germans play more aggressively at home in Allianz Arena.

In the 39 minute, Bayern netted the equalizer when Liverpool central defender Joel Matip scored an own goal as the first half ended 1-1.

In 69 minute Liverpool made it 2-1 when Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk's header from a corner kick beat Neuer.

Liverpool's Mane increased the gap as he found the net with a header in the 84 minute for a cross from Mohamed Salah to make it 3-1.

The third goal for Liverpool shattered the hopes of Bayern Munich with a 3-1 on aggregate.

The win by Liverpool means the 2013 Champions League winners have been eliminated.

Wednesday's match was Neuer's 100th Champions League appearance.

- Barcelona hammer Lyon to be in last 8

In the other match of the night Spanish powerhouse Barcelona thrashed Olympique Lyon from France 5-1 to advance to the next phase in Champions League.

Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi scored twice against Lyon.

Brazilian attacking midfielder Philippe Coutinho, Spanish central defender Gerard Pique and French forward Ousmane Dembele also scored for Barcelona.

Lyon's single goal was netted by French midfielder Lucas Tousart.

- Clubs in Champions League quarter finals:

Ajax (Netherlands)

Juventus (Italy)

Manchester City (England)

Manchester United (England)

Tottenham Hotspur (England)

Liverpool (England)

Porto (Portugal)

Barcelona (Spain)

The quarterfinals draw will Friday, March 15 in Nyon, Switzerland.

First leg matches in quarter finals to be held April 9 - 10. The second legs to be played on April 16 - 17.