Share

Reds stunned by Euro exit

London - Liverpool are facing the prospect of not playing in Europe next season after being knocked out of the Europa League by Braga on Thursday.

The stubborn Portuguese side, who have never won their domestic title, earned a famous goalless draw at Anfield to progress to the quarter-finals 1-0 on aggregate.

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish could not hide his frustration after his team struggled to break down the visitors on a night of few chances and paid the price.

"Over the two legs it was a penalty kick that decided it (in the first leg). That's about right. There was not much between either side," Dalglish told a post-match news conference.

"They were very well organised and we knew before the game that the responsibility was on us to score a goal."

Their exit means Liverpool's only route back into Europe is a fifth-place finish in the Premier League but they are six points behind Tottenham Hotspur, who also have a game in hand.

Liverpool striker Andy Carroll, making his first start since a 35 million pounds ($56.46 million) move from Newcastle United in January due to injury, failed to open his account.

"Maybe if Andy Carroll's header goes in during the first half it would have been a different outcome," said Dalglish.

"Overall we are pleased to see him back on the pitch. We weren't disappointed with his contribution in any way. He was a bit unfortunate he didn't score a goal."

Liverpool created few chances and squandered those they did manage to carve out of a rugged Braga rearguard.

"You don't need to work the goalkeeper if you put it past him. But we didn't put anything past him," lamented Dalglish.

"You need to be strong creatively if you are going to break down a really organised side. Or you need a bit of luck.

"We certainly didn't have much fortune over the two legs but I suppose everyone would say the same thing.

"Like every other team in the world we could use a bit more creativity but we are no different to anyone else."

Asked about Liverpool's chances of playing European football next season, Dalglish said: "It was an option for us to get back into Europe next year if we'd won it (the Europa League).

"We know that in every league game we will have to try and get as much as we possibly can. We were going to do that anyway, so I don't know if it will be a blessing or not."

"You only get in Europe if you win games. If you win enough games and get enough points we will get in Europe."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1142 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1323 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2023 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE