Fernando Torres.
Fernando Torres.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Fernando Torres scored twice to lead Liverpool into the quarter-finals of the Europa League, beating Lille 3-0 at home Thursday to advance 3-1 on aggregate.

Liverpool wiped out the first-leg deficit in the ninth minute at Anfield when Adil Rami fouled Lucas Leiva and Steven Gerrard stroked home a penalty.

Torres added the second goal in the 49th minute, racing clear of the defence before chipping the ball over the goalkeeper. The Spain striker made it 3-0 in the final minute when he scored after Gerrard's shot had been blocked by the goalkeeper.