Liverpool stunned by Atalanta in Europa League upset

Liverpool faced a shocking defeat at Anfield as Atalanta secured a 3-0 victory in the Europa League quarter-finals. Gianluca Scamacca's brace and Mario Pasalic's late goal left Liverpool with a daunting task to progress to the semi-finals.

Despite being the favorites, Liverpool's hopes were dashed as they suffered their first home defeat in 14 months. Jurgen Klopp, prioritizing the Premier League title race, made significant changes to the lineup, including benching Mohamed Salah.

Atalanta, sitting sixth in Serie A, dominated from the start, with Pasalic missing an early chance. Scamacca broke the deadlock in the 38th minute, and Atalanta continued to threaten, with Koopmeiners and Scamacca adding to the lead.

Even with Salah's introduction in the second half, Liverpool struggled to respond, failing to capitalize on their attacking options. Atalanta capitalized on defensive lapses, with Pasalic sealing the win after a Szoboszlai error.

Liverpool, known for historic comebacks, now face a monumental task to overturn the deficit in the second leg. The defeat puts Klopp's European farewell in jeopardy, requiring a remarkable turnaround akin to their famous 2005 Champions League final triumph.