Steve Nicol has expressed serious doubts about Liverpool FC producing another famous European comeback when they face Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield on Tuesday night.
Although PSG didn’t fully finish the job in the first leg—as Christophe Dugarry had expected—they still arrive with a strong 2-0 advantage. That margin could have been even greater if not for wasteful finishing and a series of outstanding saves from Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Liverpool have a history of dramatic European turnarounds, most notably their iconic 4-0 win over FC Barcelona, but overturning a deficit against the current Champions League holders presents a far tougher challenge.
Despite a confidence-boosting Premier League win over Fulham FC, Nicol remains unconvinced that Arne Slot’s side can rise to the occasion. Speaking on ESPN FC, he insisted there’s little reason to believe Liverpool will overcome PSG, pointing out that past Anfield comebacks were built on genuinely elite squads—something he feels the current team lacks.
He referenced historic nights against teams like Barcelona and even earlier clashes with AS Saint-Étienne, arguing those successes were driven by stronger, more complete Liverpool sides. In contrast, he believes this current team doesn’t have the quality needed, regardless of the atmosphere Anfield might generate.
Liverpool will need far more than what they showed against Fulham to turn the tie around, especially after being outplayed in Paris. There is a chance PSG could be further strengthened by the return of Bradley Barcola, adding to the challenge.
Tactically, Slot is unlikely to repeat the three-at-the-back system used in the first leg, with a more attacking approach expected as Liverpool chase the game. Meanwhile, Luis Enrique’s side come into the match well-rested after their Ligue 1 fixture against RC Lens was postponed to give them extra preparation time.
For Liverpool to have any chance, they’ll need a level of performance far beyond anything they’ve produced this season. An early goal could ignite the Anfield crowd and introduce some doubt into PSG’s mindset, but expectations remain low.
Even if progression seems unlikely, Liverpool must give everything in pursuit of a comeback. A full-blooded performance from start to finish would at least ensure they leave the pitch with pride—and earn the appreciation of their supporters.
