Liverpool's Champions League run has been halted by Paris Saint-Germain, who secured a 2-0 victory at Anfield to advance to the semifinals with a 4-0 aggregate score. Despite a spirited performance from the hosts, Ousmane Dembele's late double proved decisive in the quarterfinal tie. The Reds had their chances, with Virgil van Dijk being denied by a goal-line clearance and Alexis Mac Allister seeing a penalty award overturned by the referee after a VAR review. Liverpool boss Arne Slot took risks, introducing Mohamed Salah and Rio Ngumoha in an attempt to spark a comeback, but PSG's precision ultimately made the difference.
The holders will now face either Bayern Munich or Real Madrid in the last four, while Liverpool must focus on securing a top-five finish in the Premier League to ensure their Champions League return. The defeat has also been marred by a potentially serious injury to Hugo Ekitike, who was forced off in the first half with an Achilles issue. Slot admitted the injury 'looks really bad' and the player's World Cup hopes may be in jeopardy.
The match was marked by controversy, with Liverpool players and pundits disputing the decision to overturn the penalty award. Ibrahima Konate and Tim Sherwood both believed it was a clear penalty, while Slot lamented his side's inability to capitalize on their chances. PSG head coach Luis Enrique praised his team's resilience and credited good luck for their victory, acknowledging that Liverpool deserved to score. The defeat has highlighted familiar failings for Liverpool, who have struggled to convert their chances into goals throughout the season.
With 21 shots on goal, they managed only five saves, and their lack of precision in front of goal ultimately proved costly.