Liverpool’s hopes of a historic treble were dashed on Thursday as they were eliminated from the Europa League despite a 1-0 victory over Atalanta in the second leg of their quarterfinal matchup. The result ended Liverpool’s chances of winning three trophies in manager Jurgen Klopp’s final season at Anfield.
In Bergamo, Liverpool had a dream start when Trent Alexander-Arnold’s cross hit Matteo Ruggeri’s hand, resulting in a penalty. Mohamed Salah converted the spot-kick in the seventh minute, giving Liverpool an early lead. However, the Reds failed to capitalize on any other chances, falling short of their 5-0 win over Atalanta in the Champions League in 2020.
Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen remained on course for a historic treble by holding West Ham to a 1-1 draw at London Stadium. Xabi Alonso’s team advanced to the semifinals 3-1 on aggregate, setting up a clash with Roma in the last four.
In Rome, Roma coach Daniele De Rossi marked an extension of his contract announced earlier Thursday by reaching the last four with his team reduced to 10 men. Gianluca Mancini and Paulo Dybala scored for Roma, while Milan’s Matteo Gabbia netted a consolation goal.
With the English League Cup already secured, Liverpool still hopes for a second Premier League title under Klopp but is now in third and two points adrift of first-place Manchester City. Atalanta, despite its inconsistent Serie A form, has been shining in the Europa League, reaching the semifinals for only the second time.
In the Europa Conference League, Aston Villa advanced to the semifinals after a 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Lille. Emiliano Martínez saved two spot kicks, and Douglas Luiz converted the decisive penalty. Villa will face Olympiakos in the semifinals, while Fiorentina and Club Brugge will meet in the other semifinal.
