Liverpool 0-2 PSG (0-4 agg) - The Big Match Review

Liverpool’s quest to solidify a place in the next round was always going to be an uphill battle. Despite showing some promise, clinical finishing was missing and PSG were the opposite, punishing the reds by converting their attempts on goal, advancing to the next round comfortably.

Match Review

Ousmane Dembele scored both goals for PSG tonight with two very composed finishes, these goals personified the temperament of the entire PSG squad as this was a very professional and collected performance from them. This now means Liverpool’s last chance at silverware and to salvage something positive from this season is over, it is now the worst possible outcome Slot could’ve envisioned for the season. 

Liverpool’s first half display was very solid, but this was just too timid for a knockout tie, However, in comparison to their highly defensive first leg showing, the reds were much more aggressive. Being at Anfield was a boost and the home support played a major role in galvanising the players.

Credit: Goal.com

The starting eleven chosen by Slot was a favourable one as nearly all his summer signings were included. Having learned from, his mistakes with a back 3 in the previous leg, Slot opted for four at the back, with Kerkez and Frimpong at the full back positions. 

The game was evenly balanced especially during the first 15 minutes, Jeremie Frimpong had quite a tough time dealing with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and the left-hand side is where PSG looked their most dangerous. Dembele was coming across to the left-hand side with intricate passes up front creating for others. With Frimpong having his hands full a lot of the time Konate would come over to provide cover, and he was very consistent in cutting out all potential danger. Konate overall had a very positive performance being dependable, putting a stop to any attacks a return to form being on the cards would be useful as Liverpool’s defensive woes have been a serious cause of concern throughout the season.

Credit: The Mirror

The second half showed a completely different Liverpool side as they were creating chances relentlessly and the weight of the tie was showing in the effort levels of the players. Attacks were no longer breaking up in midfield and the team consistently entered PSG’s final third, Salah created a lot of chances even testing Safonov’s shot stopping ability. A bittersweet moment was the overturned penalty, as it was a result of Liverpool stepping their game up, but Alexis Mac Allister was deemed to have gone to ground too easily.

Credit: France 24

With their first shot off the second half, Ousemane Dembele scored and it showed the difference between the two sides and their hunger to win. Dembele scored again in stoppage time, from a counterattack and this was the nail in the coffin, Liverpool were outmatched.

Slot and Liverpool divert all their energy and attention to securing European football again for next season. The season is still in their hands and they can still push to the end of the Premier League season knowing there is still something to fight for.  

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