Javier Mascherano – Liverpool FC (04/11/2009)

Here is a collector's item of immense prestige, from the highest echelons of the Champions League. This match-issued (prepared for the match) jersey was assigned to Argentine international defensive midfielder Javier Mascherano during the clash between Olympique Lyonnais and FC Liverpool on November 4, 2009. As Javier Mascherano played this match in short sleeves, this unique piece comes from the second long-sleeved set specifically prepared for the Reds' locker room.

Match Context: Lisandro's Stabbing Blow in Stoppage Time

After Lyon's exploit at Anfield in the first leg (1-2), Rafael Benítez's men arrived at Gerland with the obligation to win. The match was extremely tense and escalated at the very end. Liverpool thought they had their revenge after Ryan Babel's late opening goal with a missile (83rd minute).

But the resilience of the Gones prevailed: in the 90th minute, Lisandro López took advantage of an aerial ball to subtly chip Pepe Reina and equalize in a frenzy (1-1). This result officially validated OL's qualification for the round of sixteen and almost condemned Liverpool.

Javier Mascherano: The "Jefe" at the Heart of the Midfield Battle

A true linchpin and first playmaker for the Reds, Javier Mascherano lived up to his reputation as a shadow leader on the Gerland pitch.

Lining up in front of the defense, the Argentine midfielder delivered a top-level performance, cutting passing lanes and winning an incalculable number of balls against Lyon's creators. This legendary long-sleeved version, prepared for the locker room on this chilly November evening, represents an absolute collector's item for any fan of Champions League history or the club from Merseyside.