Liverpool easily defeated Sparta Prague to advance to the quarterfinals of the Europa League. Over the course of the two legs, the Czech side was utterly helpless.
After suffering yet another crushing loss in the Europa League, Sparta Prague manager Brian Priske conceded his team was helpless against Liverpool.
The Reds advanced 11-2 on aggregate after winning 6-1 at Anfield to build on their 5-1 triumph in the Czech Republic the previous week, easing into the quarterfinals of the European Cup.The goals from Bobby Clark, Mohamed Salah, Dominick Szoboszlai, Darwin Núñez, and Cody Gakpo combined for a total demolition job for the home team.
If the result of the first leg wasn’t obvious enough, Liverpool made it abundantly evident in the first fifteen minutes at Anfield by storming to a 4-0 lead that effectively ended the tie.Priske would not be surprised that the Reds are the favorites to win the competition going into the quarterfinals.
In his news conference following the game, the Sparta manager stated, “All the criticism and all the haters that there may be back in the Czech Republic, but that’s how it is.” We faced a whole other level when we played. We have never encountered anything similar, and it may be some time before we do.
“Liverpool ought to be participating in the Champions League as they are a Champions League team.” In two months, they might be the Premier League champions. I’m honored. Although we were somewhat competitive in the first game in Prague, [tonight] we witnessed the individual quality. It is on a distinct level. Huge admiration for the Liverpool players.
Liverpool’s quarterfinal opponent in the Europa League will be revealed when the draw is announced tomorrow. The Reds’ pursuit of a quadruple will continue when they go to Old Trafford to play Manchester United in the FA Cup.
“Liverpool ought to be participating in the Champions League as they are a Champions League team.” They might win the Premier League in two months. It’s an honor for me. Even though the first game in Prague was rather competitive, [tonight] we saw the individual quality. It’s on an other plane. A great deal of respect for the Liverpool players.
The Europa League quarterfinal opponent of Liverpool will be disclosed upon the announcement of the draw tomorrow. When the Reds visit Old Trafford to play Manchester United in the FA Cup, they will keep trying to win four straight.
