Liverpool, in Rafael Benítez’s second year, built on their Champions League triumph with greater consistency. The team finished 3rd in the Premier League with 82 points, their highest tally since the 1980s, showcasing defensive solidity through Jamie Carragher and goalkeeper Pepe Reina, who set a club clean-sheet record. Steven Gerrard excelled, scoring crucial goals from midfield, while Xabi Alonso and Mohamed Sissoko anchored the center. In Europe, Liverpool exited the Champions League in the round of 16 to Benfica. The season’s highlight was winning the FA Cup, beating West Ham in a thrilling final on penalties after Gerrard’s heroics.
