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Liverpool fans praised for behaviour after Champions League semifinal

Liverpool's Champions League semifinal at Roma on Wednesday passed without any serious incidents involving supporters, Merseyside Police have said.

The second leg in Rome was played amid heightened security after a Liverpool fan was attacked by Roma supporters prior to the first leg at Anfield last week.

Only one arrest was reported following the second leg, which Liverpool lost 4-2 as they reached the final 7-6 on aggregate.

Merseyside Police, who coordinated safety arrangements with their Italian counterparts, the two clubs and UEFA, thanked Liverpool fans for heeding security advice.

Chief Superintendent Dave Charnock said: "I would like to commend the Liverpool fans for their exceptional behaviour during last night's match in Rome.

"It was all very good-natured and there were no major issues reported.

"One Liverpool fan was arrested by Italian police at the turnstiles on suspicion of common assault and a public order offence, but we have not been made aware of any other arrests.

"I am aware there were long queues to get into the ground due to the tight security procedures, but fans remained in good spirits throughout and we were able to get them away from the ground safely following the match."

Safety measures included arranging coach transport for Liverpool fans from the city into the stadium area.

Liverpool's Sadio Mane, who scored the opening goal at the Stadio Olimpico, said he believed they could beat any team in the world as he looked ahead to the final against Real Madrid.

"If you have Real to face you have to think about them -- they are one of the best teams in the world," he said.

"We are Liverpool, we are strong and we can beat any team in the world. We are going to do our best to go and win the final."

Liverpool chairman Tom Werner said he was overjoyed at securing a "truly deserved" place in the Champions League final.

"It was thrilling to beat Roma and our play in the Champions League was such that we truly deserve to be going to Kiev," he said.

"What a joy to experience this moment with our away supporters."