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Xabi Alonso relives Liverpool's miracle in Istanbul and reveals he had never taken a penalty prior to that famous Champions League final

Xabi Alonso had never taken a penalty in his professional career prior to stepping up from 12 yards to complete one of the most remarkable recoveries in football's recent history.

The midfielder was given the responsibility of converting from the spot during Liverpool's epic Champions League final win over AC Milan in 2005 - dubbed the Miracle of Istanbul - despite never having held the role before that night in Turkey.

Given the chance to level the scores after the Reds had battled back from 3-0 down to trail by a single goal, Alonso saw his initial attempt saved by goalkeeper Dida before smashing in the rebound.