Manager Jurgen Klopp said Liverpool could have certainly given it a “game over” in the FA Cup quarter-finals, but is proud of his team for “giving everything” during the defeat.
The Reds are very likely to win both the Premier League and Europa League this season. In the former, they are level on points with leaders Arsenal, and in the latter they are favorites to advance to the quarter-finals with a 10-2 aggregate victory.
However, they lost out to arch-rivals Manchester United in the FA Cup, meaning they won't be able to lift a third trophy.
The Red Devils took the lead early on, but Liverpool scored twice to take the lead and did the same again in extra time after United equalized in the 87th minute of normal time, sending the game into extra time.
However, Marcus Rashford scored late in extra time and the Reds lost the ball while advancing, allowing Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo to run away. The former scored by slotting the ball into the path of his team-mate, sending Liverpool into a red card.
After the game, Klopp praised his players for their performance, but suggested they had a chance to finish United off but were unable to do so.
“Super intense. United started the game really well and we didn't. We used our time and adapted well. We were great but we had to finish the game. But I couldn't do it,” he said. BBC today's match.
“If it's only one goal difference, it's obvious that the opponent is there. In the end, we will lose. You can't ask me to.
“The boys gave everything. Our decision-making wasn't great. We have to accept the result. They deserve to move on to the next round. I should have let them, but I didn't and I knew they could come back.
Indeed, he felt there were situations in which he could have beaten United, but he couldn't manage it. And he sympathizes with the club that they came so close and were brutally beaten.
“I think my boys showed great character again. Super hard work again. Everyone showed it. You can't compare our season and United's season in terms of number of games. It's okay. , we are dealing with it,” Klopp added.
“How can I doubt my sons' character? I don't. I took advantage of the situation and it's game over. We ran through without it. I still remember what I saw today. I'm proud of them. They have to recover and we will give it our all after the international break.”
“I really care about the people. I'll come back in a few weeks and try it again.”
United will face Coventry in the semi-final, but Liverpool have a chance to fight back in this game as they travel to Old Trafford again on April 7 in the Premier League.
read more: Manchester United 4-3 Liverpool: Red Devils surprise rivals in FA Cup Classic, Diallo caps off famous win with goal, red card
