Liverpool experienced a significant 4-0 setback against Manchester City in the FA Cup quarterfinals, marking their exit from the competition and escalating scrutiny on manager Arne Slot.
City secured a convincing win at the Etihad Stadium, with Erling Haaland scoring a hat-trick and Antoine Semenyo adding another goal, extending City's streak to eight consecutive FA Cup semi-final appearances.
The Reds' difficulties were highlighted when Mohamed Salah, who has announced his departure at the season's end, missed a penalty, with goalkeeper James Trafford making the save.
Despite an initial period of balanced play, Liverpool struggled to recover after conceding the first goal. Defensive errors and missed scoring opportunities proved detrimental, as both Salah and Hugo Ekitike failed to convert early chances, while City capitalized effectively on their opportunities.
Haaland opened the scoring from the penalty spot and then doubled City's advantage just before halftime with a close-range header. Semenyo extended the lead early in the second half, outpacing defenders to chip the ball over Giorgi Mamardashvili, before Haaland completed his treble with a powerful shot that struck the crossbar.
Liverpool's difficult afternoon concluded with a late penalty opportunity, but Salah's subsequent attempt was saved, compounding their frustrating performance.
This defeat marks another challenging moment in Liverpool's season, with their focus now shifting to an upcoming demanding Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain.
By Oluwagbemisola Babalola
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