Liverpool's Champions League dreams were shattered after a spirited performance at Anfield ended in a 2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, resulting in a 4-0 aggregate loss. Despite a strong showing from the Reds, Ousmane Dembele's late double sealed the fate of Arne Slot's side. The home team had their chances, with Marquinhos clearing a Virgil van Dijk effort off the line and a penalty award to Alexis Mac Allister being controversially overturned by the referee after a VAR review. Liverpool's starting lineup consisted of Mamardashvili, Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez, Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Wirtz, Ekitike, and Isak, with Salah, Gakpo, Gomez, Ngumoha, and Jones coming off the bench.
PSG's squad included Safonov, Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes, Joao Neves, Vitinha, Zaire-Emery, Doue, Dembele, and Kvaratskhelia, with Hernandes, Barcola, and Beraldo featuring as substitutes. Dembele was named Player of the Match. Slot's bold tactics, including starting Alexander Isak and introducing Mohamed Salah for the injured Hugo Ekitike, nearly paid off, but PSG's precision ultimately made the difference.
The holders will now face either Bayern Munich or Real Madrid in the semifinals, while Liverpool must focus on securing a top-five finish in the Premier League to ensure their Champions League return. The Reds' trophyless campaign has been confirmed, but there is encouragement in their performance, which suggests they can still achieve their goals. However, the injury to Ekitike, which may end his season and World Cup hopes, is a significant concern. Slot expressed his disappointment, stating that the injury 'looks really bad' and will be further investigated.
Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate believed the initial penalty award was correct, and Tim Sherwood agreed, saying 'there was contact into the back of the leg.' PSG head coach Luis Enrique praised Liverpool's intensity, saying 'good luck is important' and acknowledging that his team had to suffer at times. Slot credited his players and fans for their efforts, saying 'we weren't able to score from the many chances we had,' which has been a recurring issue throughout the season.
The Reds had 21 shots but only forced five saves, lacking the precision to capitalize on their opportunities. With the season drawing to a close, Liverpool must regroup and focus on their Premier League campaign to ensure a strong finish.