Liverpool have produced some incredible comebacks throughout their history and another monumental recovery will be needed to resurrect their Europa League campaign after a damaging defeat to Atalanta.
The Reds were heavily fancied to go all the way in Europe’s secondary competition and hadn’t lost a match at Anfield since their thumping at the hands of Real Madrid last season.
However, the visiting Atalanta – just sixth in Serie A – were smart and efficient under manager Gian Piero Gasperini’s direction and took the lead before half-time when former West Ham striker Gianluca Scamacca bagged in the 38th minute.
He was at it again just after the hour mark. The Reds were caught napping as Charles De Ketelaere cut the home defence open to find Scamacca to double the visitors’ lead.
Atalanta were in dreamland with the tie almost won at the half-way stage as they went three goals ahead. Teun Koopmeiners broke free and while Caoimhin Kelleher saved Ederson’s strike, the ball fell to Mario Pasalic to make it 3-0.
Scamacca strikes again dealing a hammer blow to Liverpool's Europa League hopes. 😳 pic.twitter.com/u9NpZxfYsl
— 90min (@90min_Football) April 11, 2024
We have been sleepwalking towards a performance like this for a while now. #LIVATA
— Mizgan (@mizgans) April 11, 2024
Liverpool must be focusing on the league, throwing Europa League like this. #LFC #UEL #LIVATA
— Jamie Kent (@BigBearKentlaar) April 11, 2024
Liverpool have 20mins to avoid a first home defeat for 14 months. Crying out for some inspiration. It's as flat on the field as it is in the stands.
— James Pearce (@JamesPearceLFC) April 11, 2024
Scamacca against Liverpool: pic.twitter.com/UDsV9hlwDC
— Troll Football (@TrollFootball) April 11, 2024
A quiet Anfield crowd is still happy to shout shoot at Joe Gomez from 40 yards.
— Adam Brown (@AdamMNVi) April 11, 2024