The UEFA Champions League final of 2005 witnessed an epic comeback by Liverpool against AC Milan, now famously known as the "Miracle of Istanbul." The game began with an early lead by Milan, with a goal in the first minute and two more goals in the first half. Liverpool had given up hope at half-time, but with an inspired team talk from their captain Steven Gerrard, they came out fighting in the second half. A goal by Vladimír Šmicer and two goals by Xabi Alonso, including a rebound from his missed penalty, brought Liverpool level with Milan. The game proceeded to an intense but scoreless extra-time, with Liverpool prevailing in the penalty shoot-out. The incredible comeback by Liverpool was enough to stun the entire sporting world and cement its place in soccer history.