Liverpool v Villarreal, Semifinal, UEFA Europa League 2015-16 - Roberto Firmino proved Carlos Dunga wrong

It was a day which Roberto Firmino will like to forget. The Brazilian coach Carlos Dunga didn’t consider him for the upcoming Copa America T in Unites States, but preferred some substandard strikers which frustrated the young man, but didn’t break him. It helped him to motivate to dish out the very best of performances to convey a message to Dunga how wrong he was!

After Daniel Sturridge doubled Liverpool's lead against Villarreal in the second-leg of Europa Cup semifinals, on the night to put Jurgen Klopp's side in control of the tie,  Firmino took rubbed salt into the yellow submarine's wounds with some spectacular piece of skills. Some stunning footwork in tight positions – one pirouette in the second half was magical – but backed that up with relentless running and his cutback created the opening goal.

Firmonio’s dazzling show against Roberto Soldado was one of the abiding memories of last night. Appearing to be heading down a place-nowhere into the corner of the pitch, the Brazilian winger managed to turn the 30-year-old striker in one flourishing movement. The Villarreal striker will have bitter memories of his time in the Premier League after a torrid spell at Tottenham following a club record £26 million fee.

Roberto Firmino was one of the standout players last night. The winger tormented the Villarreal defence all night, getting to the byline in the 75th minute to pull the ball back for Adam Lallana to put the game out of sight.  Firmino was afforded a standing ovation by the Anfield crowd after being replaced by Christian Benteke as Liverpool edged to the Europa League final.

How justified was it to exclude a competent player like Firmino? Whether a 36-year old Ricardo Oliveira better choice than players like Firmino or Gabriel Jesus remains a moot question. We the Brazilian fans are fed up with Dunga’s mind-boggling selections.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar