Liverpool: Are They Too Good for Europa League?
Liverpool’s dominant performance in the Europa League quarter-finals against Sparta Prague has left many wondering if they are too good for the competition. The team secured an impressive 11-2 aggregate victory, with a resounding 6-1 win in the second leg at Anfield.
The media was full of praise for Jurgen Klopp’s men, highlighting their brilliance and the positive implications it has for their upcoming FA Cup clash against Manchester United. Jamie Jackson of The Guardian described the match as an “unadulterated duck shoot” for Liverpool, sending a warning to their rivals. He also applauded Mohamed Salah’s return to the starting lineup, with a goal and three assists, as a headline news ahead of the cup tie.
On Twitter, David Lynch celebrated a “perfect evening” for Liverpool, with a thumping win, valuable minutes for players who needed them, goals from the forwards, and most importantly, no new injuries. Richard Jolly of the Independent focused on Liverpool’s stunning start to the game, being 4-0 up within 14 minutes. He noted that such whirlwind starts have become a trademark of Klopp’s tenure and served as a warning to Manchester United.
Chris Bascombe of the Telegraph commended Klopp for getting the best out of his squad this season. He emphasized Liverpool’s fluidity regardless of the changes made and their ability to perform at a high level against opponents of different classes.
Several players received praise for their performances. Josh O’Brien of the Mirror highlighted Darwin Nunez’s attitude, noting that he has overcome past profligacy and is now finding his feet with nine goals in his last 11 appearances. Nunez’s determination and form will be crucial for Liverpool’s trophy aspirations this season.
Additionally, Mo Salah’s achievement of scoring 20+ goals in seven consecutive seasons in all competitions was recognized as a historic feat. Salah now stands alongside Ian Rush, with the second-most 20+ goal seasons in Liverpool’s history.
Considering Liverpool’s dominance in the Europa League, Bascombe believes they are the favorites to win the competition. He acknowledged the presence of other strong contenders but emphasized that it would take a brilliant team and monumental effort to prevent Klopp’s swansong from culminating in the final. O’Brien echoed this sentiment, stating that a perfect farewell for Klopp is still possible, with Liverpool aiming to win all four remaining competitions before bidding farewell to their manager.
Liverpool’s performance against Sparta Prague sets the tone for their upcoming FA Cup clash with Manchester United, and if they can secure a victory, it will give them even more belief in their ability to triumph in multiple competitions. Although the title race is still on, Liverpool’s focus and performance in the Europa League suggest that they have no intentions of taking it easy.