LONDON — Arne Slot was left to rue Liverpool’s sloppy finishing as Galatasaray earned a 1-0 win in UEFA Champions League last-16 first leg.
Slot’s side lost to Mario Lemina’s header early in the first half at the RAMS Stadium in Istanbul.
The Reds were fortunate not to be further behind before half-time as Galatasaray created a host of chances to increase their lead.
Liverpool improved after the interval, with Ibrahima Konate’s strike disallowed for handball, AFP reported.
Mohamed Salah produced an anonymous display and was hauled off after an hour in his Liverpool record 81st Champions League appearance.
“We started the game really well,” said Slot. “We had three or four great moments. The biggest moment when Florian (Wirtz) came across almost an open goal, but he couldn’t finish that ball,” Slot said.
“We weren’t able to score and with their first attack it led to a corner and you have to give credit to the way when they get a chance. They played as if it’s the last chance of their lives.
“That is definitely something we can learn from. We sometimes get our chances and it comes across as, like, we think we’ll get 10 more.
“It’s already a difficult place to come to, but when you’re 1-0 down it makes it even harder.”
Languishing sixth in the Premier League, Liverpool hope to salvage a turbulent campaign by winning the Champions League, but this was the latest in a long line of erratic displays.
Slot bemoaned the controversial VAR decision to rule out Konate’s goal, claiming “it’s not possible so many things can go against us” as they have in their two trips to Galatasaray, where Liverpool also lost in the group stage earlier this season.
Slot hinted referee Jesus Gil Manzano was influenced by the febrile atmosphere created by Galatasaray’s frenzied fans.
“It’s always very difficult to talk to referees in a situation like that as they’re in communication with VAR so have to listen to what is being said,” Slot said.
