Liverpool’s Champions League campaign a triumph despite PSV loss

Liverpool’s perfect run in this season’s Champions League came to an end in Eindhoven, but their campaign remains nothing short of impressive.

A heavily rotated side lost 3-2 to PSV, yet Arne Slot’s team still finished top of the new-look league phase. The result mattered little, but the performance reinforced why Liverpool are among the favourites to go all the way.

They made nine changes, leaving out key figures like Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker. Despite that, they twice led in a thrilling first half, with Cody Gakpo and Harvey Elliott finding the net.

PSV fought back and ultimately secured the win, but Liverpool’s weakened side showed their attacking depth. Players like Elliott, James McConnell and Jayden Danns stepped up, highlighting the strength of their squad.

McConnell, in particular, impressed Slot. The manager confirmed he would not be loaned out, a decision that speaks volumes about his rapid development.

Amara Nallo’s debut, however, was a harsh learning experience. The 18-year-old was sent off just four minutes after coming on, an unfortunate moment that will serve as a valuable lesson.

Slot admitted it was cruel but stressed that setbacks are part of a player’s journey. “A career isn’t always positive,” he said. “He has to fight very hard to make sure he plays a second Champions League game.”

The real takeaway from this campaign is Liverpool’s consistency. Across eight matches, they have been dominant, winning seven and scoring freely.

Even in defeat, they controlled large spells of the game and looked dangerous. It was a rotated team, but the style and intensity remained the same.

Slot praised the performance despite the result. “To end up first is always good,” he said. “The performance was pleasing, with so many players either not playing in their usual position or playing for the first time.”

The new Champions League format has created an unpredictable knockout draw. Liverpool could face Paris Saint-Germain, Benfica, Monaco or Brest in the last 16.

There are no easy ties at this stage, but few teams will want to face Liverpool. Their balance of experience and emerging talent makes them a genuine contender.

With their European pathway set to be revealed soon, their focus now shifts back to domestic duties. The fight on four fronts continues, and Liverpool look more than ready for the challenge.