Causes Of Liverpool's Failure In The Europa League Jurgen Klopp Version

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah took a penalty in the match against Atalanta. (X/@LFC)

JAKARTA - Liverpool do not deserve to qualify for the Europa League semifinals. Jurgen Klopp's manager admits Liverpool failed to press or are under tight pressure against Atalanta in the second quarter-final match. However, there is a main cause of Klopp's version of Liverpool's failure.

Liverpool only won 1-0 over Atalanta in a duel at Gewiss Stadium, Friday, April 19, 2024 in the morning WIB. that victory was not enough for the Reds to win the last four tickets due to losing 3-1 on aggregate.

The 3-0 defeat at Anfield made it difficult for Liverpool to catch a goal deficit. But in that second match, Liverpool actually got the chance to do it.

Especially after Mohamed Salah scored from the penalty spot when the game had only been running for seven minutes.

It's like repeating the Champions League semi-final against Barcelona at Anfield in 2019. Liverpool 3-0 in the game at Camp Nou.

However, Klopp's troops were able to catch up and beat Barca 4-0. This started with Liverpool's goal from the penalty spot in the early minutes of the match.

That's what Virgil van Dijk et al couldn't do when they faced Atalanta. According to Klopp, the team was not sharp enough to put pressure on the opponent.

Klopp, further, said that if Liverool was able to score a second goal, the chances of catching up would be more open. A second goal wait that never materialized which ultimately frustrated players.

"Kai did not lose this match. The problem was that we lost badly at home. The defeat at home was a determining factor," said Klopp.

"If there is a second goal it really helps us. In the second half, we created more chances. Obviously, you really need goals to damage your opponent," he said.

Klopp also considered Atalanta worthy of qualifying for the semifinals. However, he is still satisfied with the performance of his players.

"It's not difficult to congratulate Atalanta. They deserve to qualify. When you win 3-1 on aggregate, it means you deserve to qualify," Klopp said again.

"But I like the game of my team. They showed commitment, enthusiasm and strength in the match. But what is clear is that we really have to be better at scoring goals," he said.

According to Klopp, Liverpool is now focusing on fighting for the English Premier League title. They are still competing closely with Manchester City and Arsenal.

Currently, Man City is at the top by pocketing 73 points. Winning two points from Arsenal and Liverpool. "Now we are focused on the league. This is our job. Obviously, we will make every effort in the competition," he asserted.