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Liverpool’s coach, Arne Slot, acknowledged his team’s struggles following a 2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday.
The loss leaves the Reds with a tough task ahead as they try to mount a comeback in the second leg at Anfield.
“Paris Saint-Germain was by far the better team today and could have scored more than two goals,” Slot said, noting PSG’s dominance in possession and chances, with the French side enjoying 70% of the ball and 18 attempts on goal, compared to Liverpool’s mere three.
Despite the loss, Slot highlighted his players’ fighting spirit, emphasising that their resilience kept the tie alive.
“We didn’t give up and that is why we still have a chance in this tie,” Slot remarked.
PSG’s goals came early and late in the game, with Desire Doue opening the scoring through a deflected strike and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia doubling the lead after the hour mark.
While Liverpool struggled to assert themselves, Slot defended his tactical choice to deploy three central defenders, citing the need to nullify the threat posed by PSG’s full-backs, Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes.
Despite the loss, Liverpool still has hope. Slot’s decision to leave Mohamed Salah on the bench raised eyebrows, but the coach explained that the Egyptian’s energy was better conserved for upcoming matches, including their crucial Premier League game against Fulham.
“For Mo to be 20 to 25 minutes defending in his own box, I think it is better for him to save his energy for a lot of games we have coming up,” Slot said.
Liverpool must regroup for a tough home test against Fulham before attempting to turn the tie around against PSG next Tuesday.
Slot’s team has won just one of their last six matches, and with their European hopes hanging in the balance, they face a daunting task to keep their Champions League aspirations alive.
