Liverpool manager Arne Slot admitted Wednesday that Paris Saint-Germain was the superior side during their Champions League quarter-final first leg. Despite the tactical struggle in Paris, Slot insists the tie remains winnable for the English club.
Slot credited PSG’s high-intensity game plan for disrupting his defensive structure. He noted that his team spent much of the night in a defensive shell.
"It wasn't our plan, but we believe we can do better," Slot said. "We have been in survival mode for much of the season, and we showed a fighting spirit, but PSG was a step above. We are still alive because they did not convert all of their chances."
The Anfield factor
The Dutch manager defended his defensive setup despite the pressure applied by the French giants. He admitted that the speed of the opposition made it difficult to maintain the intended pressure.
"There was intensity in every corner," Slot explained. "We thought we could create pressure, but they broke us down. That shows how hard it is to face opponents of this caliber."
Looking ahead to the return leg, Slot pinned his hopes on the atmosphere at Anfield. He believes the home crowd can serve as the catalyst for a comeback.
"We have to elevate our level, and with our fans, we can do it," Slot said. "They need to create the atmosphere that allows us to improve our game."
Slot also addressed the notable absence of Mohamed Salah from the starting lineup. The manager explained that the forward's exclusion was tactical rather than physical.
"He does not feel comfortable defending," Slot said. The manager noted that defensive work rate was the primary requirement for the game plan at the Parc des Princes.
