Liverpool welcome holders Paris Saint-Germain to Anfield on Tuesday evening for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final, trailing 2-0 from the first leg. Head coach Arne Slot called for better possession and an exceptional performance to overturn the deficit. PSG coach Luis Enrique anticipates a close contest.
Paris Saint-Germain won the first leg 2-0 at Parc des Princes last Wednesday, with goals from Desire Doue and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Liverpool managed only 24% possession and no shots on target, while PSG dominated with all seven attempts on goal between the teams. Slot emphasized the need for more ball control at Anfield to pose an attacking threat. “If we have the ball more, then it’s nice to have attacking threat on the pitch,” he said. “We know we need an exceptional performance to go through to the next round. PSG lead the competition with 36 goals scored this season. Luis Enrique highlighted his team's intent to win again, noting their preparation remains consistent. “It will be a very close game,” the Spaniard said. “We know how difficult it is to play in a stadium like that, but it’s also a motivation to overcome their pressure and win.” He added that Liverpool's need to score would create spaces for PSG to exploit. Team news sees Liverpool without goalkeeper Alisson Becker (hamstring), Conor Bradley (knee), and Wataru Endo (ankle), with Curtis Jones doubtful (groin). Several players risk suspension with bookings. PSG may decide late on Bradley Barcola's fitness after an ankle injury, while Fabian Ruiz has a knee issue. Kvaratskhelia and Nuno Mendes risk bans if cautioned. Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai expressed confidence in a comeback, noting PSG's squad lacks the superstars like Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Neymar from past years. “I completely believe we can overturn it,” he said. “We are going to go all in and give our best from minute one to 90.” Kick-off is at 20:00 BST, live on Prime Video in the UK.
