Arne Slot expressed his disappointment after Liverpool’s Champions League journey came to a heartbreaking end following their penalty shootout loss to Paris Saint-Germain. Despite topping the league phase of the new Champions League format, the Reds were eliminated after a 1-1 aggregate score, with PSG winning the shootout 4-1 at Anfield.
Liverpool’s Champions League Exit Feels "Unfair" to Slot
Liverpool came into the second leg with a narrow 1-0 advantage from their victory in Paris. However, PSG managed to score the only goal of the return match, forcing the tie to penalties where the French champions prevailed.
Slot didn’t hide his frustration with the outcome, suggesting that the draw was particularly tough given Liverpool’s excellent performance in the group stage:
"It feels a bit unfair to go out in this round already if you were top of the table and face a team like PSG. Last week we had a bit of luck, we didn’t have it today."
The Reds had dominated the league phase of the revamped Champions League format, finishing at the top of the table. In contrast, PSG had to overcome Brest in a playoff to reach the Round of 16 after failing to secure automatic qualification.
Robertson Laments Drawing "Toughest Tie" in Champions League
Liverpool defender Andy Robertson echoed his manager’s sentiments, suggesting that facing PSG was the most challenging possible matchup for the Reds, despite their impressive group stage performance.
"I think for finishing top of the group, we got the toughest tie of the whole Champions League," Robertson stated. "PSG are a fantastic team, got threats all over the pitch and if they play to that level then they should go far in the competition."
The Scottish international acknowledged the fine margins in the tie and mentioned how luck wasn’t on Liverpool’s side:
"We obviously got a really tough tie and we believed that we could get through. At times we showed we could. If luck was on our side a little bit more then maybe we’re the ones celebrating. But it wasn’t meant to be."
What’s Next for Liverpool?
Despite the disappointment of their Champions League exit, Liverpool still have plenty to play for this season:
- Carabao Cup final against Newcastle at Wembley on Sunday
- Premier League title race resuming after the international break
The defeat to PSG, while painful, gives Liverpool the opportunity to focus their efforts on domestic competitions. The Reds remain in strong contention for the Premier League title and could secure their first trophy under Arne Slot in the Carabao Cup this weekend.
Robertson emphasized the importance of quickly turning their attention to these competitions: "We need to dust ourselves down. We’ve got a cup final on Sunday and then we’ve got a push for the Premier League to come after the internationals."
For Liverpool fans looking for consolation after their Champions League disappointment, the prospect of domestic glory remains very much alive as the season enters its crucial final months.
Ready to support Liverpool in their quest for Premier League and Carabao Cup glory? Follow their journey as they look to bounce back from their Champions League setback with domestic success under Arne Slot’s leadership.