Liverpool now faces a hard reality, so Jurgen Klopp’s assurances following Sunday’s disappointing stalemate against Manchester United may seem hollow. Even while their chances of winning the Premier League may not have been severely damaged at Old Trafford, their chances of qualifying for the Europa League were severely damaged on Thursday night when they lost 3-0 to Atalanta, raising serious questions about their form at a crucial time.
Ever since the quarterfinal match began, Liverpool had trouble getting into a groove. Atalanta showed dominance and should have led by more than one goal at halftime, even though Darwin Nunez blew a great chance and Harvey Elliot put up a fantastic effort.
In the first, somewhat by coincidence, Caoimhin Kelleher was guilty when Gianluca Scamacca’s shot went under him. But in the sixtyth minute, the Italians showed remarkable poise and control, rightfully increasing their advantage when De Ketelaere’s beautiful cross was met by the Italian’s foot.
Even after Klopp brought on players like Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah, Liverpool was unable to mount a comeback and lost the game as Mario Pasalic’s late third goal sealed their destiny.
“If you don’t have belief, there’s no point in going to Italy,” said Liverpool’s captain in a press conference following the game. We cannot ponder on it. We shall play again in three days. We have to turn it back on to receive a result starting tomorrow.
