Liverpool participant scores vs PSG: 4/10s poor as Reds no match for European champions

Liverpool were beaten 2-0 by PSG in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final, with the Reds looking shaky at the back and toothless in attack

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Arne Slot’s Liverpool suffered a fourth straight away loss as the Reds’ Champions League aspirations now hang by a thread.

Following tactical changes to his team’s setup, it appeared destined to be a gruelling evening for a vulnerable Liverpool when PSG struck first after 11 minutes. At first glance, Desire Doue’s effort looked like a Goal of the Season candidate, but slow-motion footage revealed the shot took a significant deflection, leaving Giorgi Mamardashvili helpless to prevent it.

Liverpool had grown more secure as the opening period progressed, but their progress was undone midway through the second half when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia weaved his way past the Reds’ backline to score an elegant second. PSG were thwarted from adding a third on multiple occasions, most notably when Ibrahima Konate’s desperate challenge was originally awarded as a spot-kick by the referee, only for VAR intervention to spare their embarrassment. Here, the Daily Star Sport rates the Liverpool players.

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Giorgi Mamardashvili – 6

Originally criticised by commentators for his role in the opening goal, though those remarks were withdrawn once the deflection became apparent. While it didn’t quite match Alisson’s heroics against PSG last season, the Georgian goalkeeper made several crucial stops to limit the damage, though he was left utterly bewildered by Kvaratskhelia’s mesmerising footwork for the second strike.

Jeremie Frimpong – 5

Utterly toothless down the right wing, despite operating in a more natural role as wing-back. Found himself in encouraging areas in the attacking third, but his delivery and decision-making on the ball completely failed the Dutchman.

Ibrahima Konate – 4

Appeared as though he’d made a costly error by conceding a penalty, which might have sealed the tie. However, after being awarded on the pitch, the referee controversially reversed his decision following review. Was lucky not to give away a second penalty for a late push. Was caught out way too often on the right of the back three.

Virgil van Dijk – 5

Required time to find his rhythm in the match and was pulled out of position on several occasions during the opening period. Adapted to the unconventional formation as proceedings developed, and proved crucial in preventing PSG from running amok.

Joe Gomez – 5

Faced the challenging task of operating as the left-most centre-back, but stood firm against one of Europe’s finest attacking units.

Milos Kerkez – 4

Given greater attacking licence as a wing-back, but once more, failed to make any impression whatsoever. The Hungarian does possess some goodwill in reserve, considering it’s his debut campaign with the Merseysiders. Matters must improve though.

Ryan Gravenberch – 5

Probably had the hardest task on the pitch, given the way PSG’s midfield knock the ball about with such ease. All things considered, did well. Beaten way too easily for the second goal.

Alexis Mac Allister – 5

Poor season continues and was booked for a reckless tackle after being beaten for pace.

Dominik Szoboszlai – 5

Liverpool’s talisman on several occasions this season, but was left wanting in the French capital. Never got into the game and the Reds sorely lacked his impact in the final third.

Florian Wirtz – 4

What’s his purpose? Seriously? That’s not a criticism of the player, but rather a swipe at the manager. We’re now in April, and it still appears as though Slot remains uncertain about his expectations from the playmaker. Xabi Alonso’s appointment probably can’t arrive quickly enough for the former Bayer Leverkusen star.

Hugo Ekitike – 5

Liverpool’s sole attacking option, but frequently found himself running into dead ends. He was occasionally careless with the ball and when opportunities did arise, the Frenchman lacked the necessary calmness in front of goal. Disappointing.

Substitutes:

Alexander Isak – 5

Didn’t contribute much during his roughly 20 minutes on the pitch, but Liverpool will be pleased to see him back.

Curtis Jones – 6

Added some energy in the middle of the park.

Cody Gakpo – 5

Came on with 15 minutes to play. Did nothing.

Andrew Robertson – 6

Knew where to be and when to drop if necessary.

Trey Nyoni – N/A