According to coach Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool must learn from the defeat in the FA Cup and handle the situation better when they meet Man Utd again in round 32 of the Premier League.
At Old Trafford on March 17, after conceding a goal to Scott McTominay, Liverpool scored two goals in a row thanks to Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah to go into halftime with a 2-1 lead. In the second half, Liverpool dominated, but squandered their chances and paid the price when Man Utd equalized thanks to substitute Antony in the 87th minute.
The extra-time scenario played out similarly, with Harvey Elliott restoring Liverpool's lead and Marcus Rashford equalising. The drama reached its climax in the second extra-time stoppage time, with Alejandro Garnacho accelerating and setting up Amad Diallo for a cross-angle shot, sealing a 4-3 victory for Man Utd.
The defeat shattered Liverpool's dream of winning the quadruple, and Klopp wants his team to take control and make the most of their chances when they play again in the Premier League round of 32. "We played really well that day but we couldn't solve the situations," the German coach said before the match. "There was too much extra time and we couldn't avoid making mistakes."
Coach Jurgen Klopp during Liverpool's 3-4 loss to Man Utd in the FA Cup quarter-finals at Old Trafford on March 17. Photo: AP
Klopp continued to assess that Man Utd always play well at Old Trafford. "Man Utd are a top club when playing at home, but we have to do what we did from the 15th to the 70th minute. Football is not always easy. We have to find a way to cause problems for Man Utd, and they do the same. When you play away at Old Trafford, you have to play very well, if you want to win."
The FA Cup quarter-final was marred by chants of the Hillsborough disaster, leading to several arrests and increased security for both Manchester United and Manchester United ahead of the Premier League rematch. "This is a game between two of the best clubs in the world. Show a bit of class in these moments. Don't sing this or that, just show class and enjoy the game," Klopp said, stressing the importance ofteaching respect and understanding.
Liverpool have the advantage in the title race, as they are second with 70 points, equal with Man City and one point behind leaders Arsenal, but have played one game less. If they win all eight remaining matches, Liverpool will take the title from Man City. According to Klopp, Liverpool must stay calm in such a tight race and focus on each game. "We are ready for this battle and let's see what we can do," he said.
Hong Duy
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