Both teams had early chances. Yossi Benayoun and Robbie Keane almost played in Fernando Torres while Benayoun sent a shot the wrong side of the post after running onto a Steven Gerrard through ball. Dirk Kuyt should have done better when found on the edge of the box by Fabio Aurelio.
Pepe Reina had to be at his best at the other end, making a smart stop from a 25 yard shot, keeping out an attempted volley and being quick out of his box to put off Onyewu after the Standard Liege striker beat the offside trap.
The Reds had more possession second half but struggled to break the Belgian champions down while Liege were always a threat on the counter. Ryan Babel and Nabil El Zhar were introduced to give Liverpool more width but still they couldn't find the breakthrough.
The game went to extra time as Standard's time wasting paid off. They were clearly playing for penalties and seemed like they were going to get their wish, especially when El Zhar was brought down in the box and Liverpool's spot kick claims were waved away. However, with two minutes remaining Babel sent a cross to the far post where Kuyt was waiting to send the Reds though.