Liverpool's European campaign has come to an end after Paris Saint-Germain secured a 2-0 win at Anfield, sealing a 4-0 aggregate victory in the Champions League quarter-finals. Despite a spirited performance from Arne Slot's side, Ousmane Dembele's late double proved decisive, punishing Liverpool for their inability to capitalize on their chances.
The hosts had opportunities, with Virgil van Dijk denied by Marquinhos' goal-line clearance and Alexis Mac Allister seeing a penalty award overturned by the referee following a VAR review. Liverpool's starting lineup consisted of Mamardashvili, Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez, Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Wirtz, Ekitike, and Isak, with substitutions including Salah, Gakpo, Gomez, Ngumoha, and Jones. PSG's lineup included Safonov, Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes, Joao Neves, Vitinha, Zaire-Emery, Doue, Dembele, and Kvaratskhelia, with Hernandes, Barcola, and Beraldo introduced from the bench.
Dembele was named player of the match for his impressive display. Slot's bold tactics, including the introduction of Mohamed Salah for the injured Hugo Ekitike, almost paid off, but PSG's superior precision ultimately made the difference. The holders will now face either Bayern Munich or Real Madrid in the semi-finals, while Liverpool must focus on securing a top-five finish in the Premier League to ensure their Champions League return.
The defeat has also raised concerns over Ekitike's fitness, with the player potentially facing a season-ending injury. Liverpool's underperformance in front of goal continues to be a concern, with the team having scored 24 goals from an expected-goals total of 27.8 in the Champions League this season.