Liverpool F.C first won the European Cup (now known as the Champions League) in 1977, and they have gone on to win the competition a further four times - the most recent win coming in 2005.
Liverpool's First Success at a European Tournament
Liverpool's first triumph in an European competition preceded their 1977 European Cup win when, in 1973, the club won the less prestigious UEFA Cup (now known as the Europa League). They have also won this particular competition twice since that time: In 1976 and 2001.
Liverpool's European Cup Win of 1977
Liverpool's opponents in the 1977 European Cup final were Germany's Borussia Monchengladbach: The same club that they had already defeated in the 1973 UEFA cup final. It was the first appearance in the European Cup final for both teams. The final took place on the 25th May at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, Italy; watched by 57,000 spectators. Liverpool scored first through a goal by Terry McDermott in the 28th minute, and it wasn't until the 52nd minute that Borussia equalized. However, Liverpool guaranteed the result they wanted in the closing stages of the match, courtesy of a goal by Tommy Smith in the 64th minute, and a penalty from Phil Neal. Liverpool's 3 - 1 victory over Borussia was a watershed moment in European football, and the victory started a run of six consecutive European Cup victories for English clubs.
