Balotelli and Gerrard Score in Crazy Ending to Liverpool Champions League Match

In their first Champions League game since 2009, Liverpool were faced with the less-than-intimidating task of a home game against Bulgarian minnows Ludogorets Razgrad. 

Despite the calibre of competition, the Reds took until the 82nd minute to break the deadlock—and the goal came from the right foot of Mario Balotelli.

"

Super Mario Goal vs Ludogorets https://t.co/yhwi9GtsOs

— MostarLFC (@MostarLFC) September 16, 2014"

Controlling a cross from the left from Alberto Moreno (who else?), the Italian composed himself, shook off two defenders and fired past the goalkeeper into the bottom-right corner. 

It was Balotelli's first goal for his new club and also his first shot on target of the evening.

It looked like it would be the winner. However, in the 90th minute, Ludogorets did the unthinkable and managed a dramatic equaliser, with Dani Abalo rounding Simon Mignolet to tuck it home...

Yet the drama wasn't over! Deep in injury time, Ludogorets' new Canadian goalkeeper Milan Borjan brought down Javi Manquillo in the area. The referee blew for a penalty, which Steven Gerrard duly dispatched to give a 2-1 final result.

"

GOLLL de Abalo. Liverpool 1-1 Ludogorets. #UCL https://t.co/AF4MKC5cF6

— Actual Fútbol (@ActualFutbol) September 16, 2014"

It was quite an ending, albeit a nervous one for the Kop faithful!