‘It’s possible’: Mane claims Liverpool target is realistic on one condition

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Sadio Mane has told CBS that Liverpool have a realistic shot at winning another Champions League title this term but most overcome sides like Inter Milan if they are to be successful.

The Reds visit the Nerazzurri for the first-leg of their last 16 tie on Wednesday night. Jurgen Klopp’s side have progressed past the first knockout stage in three of the last four seasons. However, the Anfield natives also exited as champions in 2019/20 against Atletico Madrid.

Real Madrid also ended the Merseysiders’ European tour last term in the quarter-final in a repeat of the ‘17/18 final. Additionally, Liverpool have lost four of their last eight meetings with Italian sides in UEFA’s elite club competition, including three whilst away from home.

Liverpool do, however, boast a strong record against Inter Milan having taken three wins in four Champions League meetings all-time. They also won 1-0 at the San Siro in their last tie with the Nerazzurri in March 2008 to progress beyond the round of 16 under Rafa Benitez.

Mane eying second Champions League title with Liverpool

Mane played an instrumental role in Liverpool winning the Champions League in 2018/19 with starting roles in all 13 games. The Senegal winger also scored four goals and provided three assists, including netting a key brace to overcome Bayern Munich 3-1 in the last 16.

The 29-year-old has so far scored twice in the competition this season to help toward an unbeaten group stage run. Now, Mane is eying his second Champions League title with Liverpool, but also accepts the Reds must beat sides like Inter Milan to go all the way.

“We know that Inter is one of the best [teams] in Europe,” Mane said. “Especially in Italy – they’re going to be champions, probably, so facing them won’t be an easy game. We expect a very, very tough game. We want to play this kind of exciting game.

“We are Liverpool. We’re a good team with good players, so it will be a really interesting game. We are looking forward to it and for sure, our target from the beginning [is winning].

“We want to win the Champions League and I know it won’t be easy. But it’s possible, so before winning you have to face one of the best. You want to win the best [tournaments], you have to be the best.”