Liverpool Under Pressure Ahead Of PSG Champions League Clash

Liverpool Under Pressure Ahead Of PSG Champions League Clash
Liverpool struggle for form after heavy defeat to Manchester City
Ekitike set for emotional return against former club PSG

Paris Saint-Germain will face Liverpool FC in a high stakes Champions League quarter final clash, with the first leg set for Wednesday in Paris.

When both sides met in the competition last season, Liverpool were widely regarded as one of Europe’s most complete teams, earning praise from PSG coach Luis Enrique. However, the balance has shifted significantly, with PSG now entering the tie as favourites.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the French side edged Liverpool on penalties in the last 16 last season, a result that proved pivotal in their run to a historic first Champions League title. PSG overturned a first leg deficit before holding their nerve at Anfield.

Since then, both teams have taken contrasting paths. Liverpool, now managed by Arne Slot, have struggled for consistency despite their domestic success last term.

Their current campaign has been disappointing, highlighted by a heavy 4 0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter finals. The loss left captain Virgil van Dijk questioning the team’s response.

“But we have a responsibility, not only to ourselves but especially to the fans and, if we want to make something out of this season, we have to try and do something special in the next three games,” he said.

“The matter of fact is now, PSG are waiting for us. It will be so tough again. So we have to be ready mentally as soon as possible.”

Liverpool have won just one of their last five matches and currently sit fifth in the league, making a return to the Champions League next season a priority.

PSG, meanwhile, appear to be peaking at the right time. A 3 1 win over Toulouse FC, featuring a standout goal from Ousmane Dembele, extended their lead at the top of Ligue 1.

The hosts will also rely on Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who impressed in the previous round against Chelsea FC.

For Liverpool, Hugo Ekitike could prove decisive. The striker, who has scored 17 goals this season, faces his former club after an underwhelming spell in Paris.

Ekitike struggled for opportunities at PSG alongside stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Neymar, but now returns in strong form with a point to prove.