Liverpool face a daunting task of reaching the Champions League semi-finals after a 2-0 defeat to holders Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in Paris.
Desire Doue netted a deflected opener, while Khvicha Kvaratskhelia punished poor defending with a superb second in a dominant PSG display.
The defeat marked Liverpool’s fourth consecutive away loss, their worst run on the road since April 2012.
PSG could have scored more but for wasteful finishing and impressive goalkeeping from Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Mamardashvili made key saves from Doue, Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembele and Achraf Hakimi to keep Liverpool in the contest.
Luis Enrique’s side were also denied by VAR, which overturned a penalty decision against Ibrahima Konate.
Another appeal for a foul on Nuno Mendes was ignored, further frustrating the hosts despite their dominance.
Liverpool were fortunate to concede only twice after managing just three shots, none of them on target.
They must improve significantly in the return leg at Anfield to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Coach Arne Slot deployed a back five to contain PSG but left Mohamed Salah on the bench throughout.
The tactical change failed as PSG maintained control and dictated the tempo of the match.
Kvaratskhelia doubled the lead after Ryan Gravenberch failed to track his run from Joao Gomes’ pass.
The Georgian winger cut inside before finishing clinically to cap a flowing attacking move.
Slot introduced Alexander Isak, recently back from injury, in a bid to spark a comeback.
However, Liverpool showed little attacking threat and remained vulnerable to PSG’s late pressure.
With domestic cup exits and fading league hopes, Liverpool’s chances of silverware now hang in the balance.
