Arne Slot Backs Liverpool Fightback Despite PSG Defeat in Paris

• Liverpool trail 2-0 after first leg defeat in Champions League quarterfinal
• Arne Slot admits side were overrun for long periods in Paris
• Return leg at Anfield seen as decisive opportunity to recover

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot said his side retain belief in reaching the Champions League semifinals despite a 2-0 first leg defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

Goals from Désiré Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia gave the French champions a clear advantage ahead of the return leg at Anfield, with the margin potentially greater given the number of chances created.

Slot deployed a 3-4-3 system in Paris and left Mohamed Salah out of the starting side, but the approach failed to limit PSG’s attacking threat.

“If you reflect on the whole game I think we are lucky with only losing 2-0,” Slot said. “It was very good for us that we are still in the tie. We can bring them to Anfield and we know how strong that can be for us.”

He acknowledged the scale of the challenge posed by PSG’s pace and movement across the pitch.

“They have pace everywhere. Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes are a constant attacking threat. It is a level above sprinting and you have to cope with that.”

Slot added that attempts to press high left his side exposed.

“The moments we tried to press them, we were opened up. They were the better team, but we did not give up and that is why we still have a chance.”

Liverpool must now overturn a two goal deficit at Anfield, with Slot pointing to the influence of home support as a critical factor.

“We will show a different game at Anfield,” he said. “If you want to press aggressively, the fans can help with the atmosphere. It is clear we will not use the same approach.”

He also highlighted the unpredictable nature of knockout football.

“There are red cards, penalties and moments that can change everything. Anfield can make a big difference, and we will need that support.”

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.