Liverpool’s Champions League dreams came to an end after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to a superb Paris Saint-Germain side at Anfield.
Trailing 1-0 from the first leg, PSG showcased their growth under Luis Enrique, eliminating a Liverpool team widely regarded as tournament favorites.
Ousmane Dembélé’s early strike set the tone for PSG’s comeback, with Liverpool struggling to break down the disciplined French side, while PSG remained a constant threat.
Over the two legs, PSG were deserving victors, with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma proving decisive in the shootout, denying Darwin Núñez and Curtis Jones before Désiré Doué converted the winning penalty in front of ecstatic fans.
Liverpool started at breakneck speed, aiming to build on their first-leg advantage, with Mohamed Salah twice going close in front of an expectant Kop.
However, PSG’s lethal counterattack punished them within 12 minutes, aided by a defensive mix-up. Bradley Barcola’s routine cross caused confusion between Alisson and Ibrahima Konaté, allowing Dembélé to capitalize from close range.
PSG created further chances, with Alisson making a crucial save from Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia misfiring when well positioned.
Liverpool applied relentless pressure after the break but struggled against PSG’s resolute defense. Donnarumma produced a brilliant save to deny Luis Díaz, while Jarell Quansah struck the post and Dominik Szoboszlai saw a goal ruled out for offside.
In extra time, PSG dominated, with Alisson making a stunning stop from Dembélé before Liverpool’s fate was sealed in the shootout.
