The Reds fell to a 2-0 defeat in Serbia after a fine first half double from forward Milan Pavkov
Red Star Belgrade defender Milos Degenek believes Liverpool were guilty of underestimating his side in their shock 2-0 defeat to the Serbian champions on Tuesday night.
The Reds went into the game having beaten Red Star 4-0 at Anfield a fortnight ago and knew that another victory would see them take charge of Group C.
But a first-half double from forward Milan Pavkov was enough to see off Jurgen Klopp’s side on the night, with Liverpool’s chances of qualifying for the knockout stages now in doubt.
And Degenek, who was excellent at the heart of the Red Star defence, believes Liverpool were too complacent.
“We played well and managed to shut them out. Pavkov scored two beautiful goals, but all the boys played really well. Now if only we could play like this every week," Degenek said, as per the Liverpool Echo.
“I think Liverpool underestimated us and consequently paid for that mistake.”
Klopp’s side had been warned to expect a hostile atmosphere at the Marakana on what was a hugely significant night for Red Star, who are back in the Champions League this season after a 26-year absence.
The victory was their first in Group C and means that there are now just two points separating first and last spot.
Degenek went onto claim that James Milner, who was Liverpool captain on the night, had told him that the rowdy crowd in the stadium was like nothing he’d ever heard before.
“I spoke with Milner in the tunnel and he told me he'd never experienced anything like the noise coming from above,” the Australian defender added.
“I believe we can repeat this against Napoli.”
Unsurprisingly, Red Star goalscorer Pavkov was delighted with his efforts on the night after not featuring in the first match between the two sides at Anfield last month.
“I was hoping for this,” the striker said.
“I said earlier that I'd like to score against Liverpool and it came true. I even scored twice.
“Sleep? I won't. I can't sleep after some league games, let alone this one. Maybe not the next two or three nights.”
Liverpool are set to take on PSG at the Parc des Princes in their next group match before they host Napoli in December.
Harrington
229
Losing to Red Star is embarrassing. People can kid themselves, but we’ve been poor all season. Klopp has been found out and he’s too loyal to bang average players. 3 years and 0 trophies, if this was Rodgers you’d all be calling for the sack. Why can we not question the manager?
SINGAM23
207
Milos Degenek... you are wrong to giving in negative comments and now prepare yourself for heavy backlash. First, it was long flight journey which made the players tired (so did your team a fortnight ago) Secondly, Liverpool were without their captain to generate the play. Thirdly, your home pitch with full supports made the difference. Fourth, a 2-0 victory for your team doesn't means that you've won the entire league Fifth, get worried about your next match and try to prove it right into winning ways. Sixth, it'll always be in difficulty to get into winning ways after playing in league matches. Last but least, Not to get excited of One winning match. if the streak are to be continued.... well, you think if your team can do it.
Nesaiknruy_Legend
171
As I said before. The pundits fed it into the teams heads that they're this unstoppable force and they let their guards down twice in 1 week. How could they rest their best players against a champions league opponent and expect to win. They deserved the loss and were put back on earth....
RealMd13
9
This year the UEFA champions league is ours LIVERPOOL 2018/19 season