The drama that unfolded in Liverpool will likely leave a sour taste, especially considering the teams’ performance in the Champions League. It’s clear that finishing first in the league phase means little if you can’t deliver when it matters most. After sending shockwaves throughout the continent and being touted as favorites to win the title, Liverpool’s campaign came to a halt in the most unexpected way – a penalty shootout that left them packing their bags. The fact that PSG outperformed them in both Paris and Anfield only adds to the disappointment.
A Tale of Two PSGs
Any coach would be thrilled to have the likes of Messi, Neymar, and Mbappé on their team. However, getting them to listen and having a defensive commitment is a different story altogether. Luis Enrique has managed to achieve the impossible with his squad, getting players like Barcola, Dembéle, Kvaratskhelia, Doué, and Kangin to press and suffer in the defensive phase. This level of discipline would be unimaginable with the other trident. Enrique’s return to Anfield as a winner, after potentially losing some of his spotlight, has certainly earned him back some well-deserved attention. This was an elimination that showcased his coaching prowess, a true victory for the manager.
A Golden Ball Up for Grabs
It’s challenging to find a player who, by March 11th, has a stronger case for the Ballon d’Or than Salah. Despite his impressive performance, he won’t be taking home the award. Losing in the Champions League round of 16, no matter the domestic success, essentially disqualifies him from the running. The English may prioritize their Premier League, but it’s no match for the prestige of the Champions League. There’s nothing quite like the nights spent competing in the Champions League, and winning one is an unparalleled experience.
Donnarumma, the English Nemesis
Donnarumma has proven himself to be a hero on the big stage, first in the Euro 2021 final at Wembley and now in 2025 at Anfield. Saving two penalties from Darwin and Curtis Jones has given him a confidence boost that will last a while. The Italian goalkeeper has shown that he can perform under pressure, a crucial asset for any team moving forward in the competition.
Darwin’s Miss: A Different Story
As soon as the camera panned to Darwin, it was almost as if the entire nation knew what was coming. “He’s going to miss it,” they said, and unfortunately, he did. The young player seems to be plagued by bad luck, often finding himself at the center of memes and jokes. Once you start down that path, it’s tough to turn things around. Despite his efforts, Darwin’s name has become synonymous with missed opportunities, a tag that he desperately needs to shake off if he wants to regain his form and the trust of his fans.