Basle warn Reds

Liverpool were today warned by Basle goal hero Julio Hernan Rossi that the Swiss side will go all out for victory in next week’s must-win Champions League clash for the Reds.

A draw from Tuesday’s game will put Basle into the second group stage and Liverpool will be out if they do not win.

Last night’s 2-0 victory for Basle against Spartak Moscow has set up the decider and Rossi, who struck the first goal in the Russian capital, said: “Now it’s important that we play to win in the final home match against Liverpool.

“We mustn’t have it in the back of our minds that a draw will do.”

Basle have exceeded expectations so far, but coach Christian Gross has seen his side up their game for the foray into Europe’s elite club competition.

“We played really well,” said Rossi of last night’s performance which came amid driving snow.

“We suffered somewhat due to the cold, and the pitch was hard to play on, too.

“Spartak had two good chances but I think our victory was merited.

“Qualification would be great for Swiss football.”

Rossi’s team-mate, Murat Yakin, admitted the conditions had made it difficult for Basle to impose their natural game on Spartak.

But he felt the Russians had struggled to cope, too.

“They lacked cleverness,” he said in the Basler Zeitung.

“We were very good in defence and earned ourselves this victory.

“We’re on a high at the moment, playing with confidence and every chance is a dangerous goal chance.

“Now comes the highlight match at home against Liverpool.

“The fact that we can reach the next round without depending on other results is fantastic.

“I believe that Basle and all of Switzerland are looking forward to this match.”