Jurgen Klopp’s attempts to soothe the disappointment following the stalemate against Manchester United on Sunday may now seem inadequate as Liverpool is confronted with a harsh reality. While their ambitions in the Premier League may not have suffered a definitive blow at Old Trafford, their aspirations in the Europa League were shattered by a humiliating 3-0 loss to Atalanta on Thursday evening, casting doubt on their form at a pivotal moment.
From the outset of the quarter-final encounter, Liverpool encountered difficulties in finding their groove. Despite Darwin Nunez squandering a prime opportunity and Harvey Elliot striking the woodwork with a splendid attempt, Atalanta asserted their dominance and should have been leading by more than a solitary goal by halftime.
The opening goal, somewhat fortuitous, exposed Caoimhin Kelleher’s vulnerability as Gianluca Scamacca’s shot slipped past him. However, the Italians demonstrated superior composure and control, doubling their lead deservedly when De Ketelaere’s exquisite delivery was met by the foot of the Italian in the 60th minute.
Even with Klopp introducing the likes of Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson, Liverpool failed to ignite a comeback, succumbing to a late third goal by Mario Pasalic, sealing their fate in the match.
Following the match, Liverpool’s captain addressed the media, stating: “If you don’t have belief, there’s no point in going to Italy. We can’t dwell on it. In three days we play again. From tomorrow, we have to switch it back on to getting a result.”
“It was a very disappointing evening. Too many individual mistakes, and we were duly punished.”
