PSG vs Liverpool (4-1), Reds Crash Out After Penalty Heartbreak

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PSG vs Liverpool, Liverpool’s journey in the UEFA Champions League came to a bitter end as they lost 4-1 on penalties to Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield. Despite dominating large parts of the game, a defensive error and poor finishing cost them dearly, leaving their fans heartbroken.

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Liverpool’s Painful Exit from Europe

Liverpool had high hopes of overturning their first-leg deficit, especially after their dramatic 1-0 win in Paris. However, the game took a cruel turn when Ibrahima Konaté’s mistake gifted PSG their only goal of the night, forcing extra time and eventually a penalty shootout.

Gianluigi Donnarumma emerged as the hero for PSG, saving penalties from Darwin Núñez and Curtis Jones to secure his team’s place in the quarterfinals. For Liverpool, it was a painful reminder of how cruel football can be.

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PSG vs Liverpool, How the Match Unfolded

First Half, A Costly Mistake

Liverpool started the game on the front foot, creating multiple chances. Mohamed Salah had two clear opportunities but failed to convert.

Then came the turning point—Bradley Barcola’s low cross confused Alisson and Konaté, allowing Ousmane Dembélé to score an easy goal. PSG took control of the match after that, but they failed to capitalize on their chances, keeping Liverpool alive.

Second Half, Liverpool Fight Back

Arne Slot’s men showed great determination after the break. Jarell Quansah came closest to equalizing when his header hit the post, while Luis Díaz and Salah kept testing Donnarumma.

Despite dominating possession and attacking relentlessly, Liverpool couldn’t find a way past PSG’s defensive wall. The match ended 1-0 on the night (1-1 on aggregate), sending the tie into extra time.

Extra Time, PSG Hold Firm

Both teams seemed exhausted in extra time, and while PSG had some late chances, Alisson made key saves to keep Liverpool in the game.

However, when the match went to penalties, Donnarumma rose to the occasion, stopping shots from Núñez and Jones to send PSG through.

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Liverpool Player Ratings, Who Shined and Who Struggled?

Alisson Becker (7.5/10) – Made crucial saves during the game but couldn’t stop the penalties.

Trent Alexander-Arnold (6/10) – Had a mixed performance, struggled defensively but provided some good attacking passes before being forced off injured.

Ibrahima Konaté (5.5/10) – His costly mistake handed PSG the lead, but he improved later in the game.

Virgil van Dijk (6.5/10) – Commanding at the back but lacked precision in his passing.

Andy Robertson (6.5/10) – Good attacking presence but struggled against PSG’s quick wingers.

Ryan Gravenberch (6/10) – Much better than in the first leg but still not at his best.

Alexis Mac Allister (7.5/10) – Liverpool’s most creative player but guilty of losing possession at times.

Dominik Szoboszlai (7.5/10) – Tireless work ethic and looked like a real threat going forward.

Mohamed Salah (6/10) – Missed big chances and was far from his best.

Diogo Jota (5.5/10) – Struggled to influence the game before being substituted.

Luis Díaz (6/10) – Poor in the first half but improved after halftime, though he lacked a finishing touch.

Substitutes:

Jarell Quansah (7/10) – Almost scored but was unlucky to hit the post.

Darwin Núñez (4/10) – Barely made an impact and missed a crucial penalty.

Curtis Jones (5/10) – Took time to get into the game and missed his penalty.

Cody Gakpo (5.5/10) – Returning from injury, he looked far from sharp.

Harvey Elliott & Wataru Endo (N/A) – Came on too late to make an impact.

Manager: Arne Slot (6/10) – Set up his team well, but his substitutions didn’t have the desired effect.

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What’s Next for Liverpool?

With the Champions League dream over, Liverpool must now focus on winning the Premier League and the Carabao Cup. However, this loss will sting for a long time, as they had enough chances to win but failed to take them.

For PSG, their hunt for European glory continues as they await their quarterfinal opponents.

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