Arne Slot has recently made headlines for reportedly telling a referee, “I’ll f***ing blame you,” if Liverpool fails to win the Premier League. However, in the Champions League, he might end up thanking the officials if they secure a seventh title.

That comment was made tongue-in-cheek, as Liverpool have already showcased their class with convincing victories over the champions of Europe, Spain, and Germany, clearly not needing any help from referees.

Yet, a crucial moment involving Ibrahima Konate, who shoved Bradley Barcola while being the last man back, raised questions about whether fortune was favoring Liverpool in this tie. Konate was fortunate to remain on the pitch after the incident, and the wait for VAR to review it must have felt eternal. Ultimately, the referee signaled for a throw-in for Trent Alexander-Arnold, leaving the crowd in disbelief.

Pundits on TNT Sports unanimously believed that Konate should have received a red card, which would have significantly complicated Liverpool’s task and reduced their chances of a great escape.

After avoiding expulsion, Konate delivered an outstanding defensive performance. Born nearby, this was a superb display from the Parisian, apart from his near-miss with a red card.

Real Madrid are reportedly monitoring his situation, as his contract expires at the end of next season, and it’s no surprise. Central defensive partner Virgil van Dijk garners much praise, and rightly so, but Konate is equally formidable.

He consistently blocked shots during the 27 attempts PSG directed at Liverpool’s goal, and alongside the brilliant Alisson, he was instrumental in keeping the Reds’ defense intact.

This performance epitomized an exceptional defensive display. Luis Enrique had Slot’s men in a chokehold, but Liverpool showed remarkable resilience and refused to concede defeat.

Slot had mentioned that his players needed to “suffer” for a result in the French capital, and they certainly did. Ousmane Dembele, currently one of Europe’s most in-form strikers, set the pace early on, easily bypassing Andy Robertson. Barcola did similarly to Alexander-Arnold on the opposite flank.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who joined from Napoli in January, demonstrated why he was dubbed “Kvaradona” in Naples, turning Robertson inside out before curling a stunning strike into the far corner, only to have it ruled offside—a fair but unfortunate call.

This season has been marked by Liverpool’s attacking brilliance, with Mohamed Salah often breaking records. However, this match highlighted their mental resilience, patience, and defensive strength, particularly exemplified by Konate. To be crowned champions of Europe, all three attributes are essential.

In the midst of Paris Fashion Week, PSG indeed appeared to be the most fashionable team in town. Yet, while Liverpool’s performance may not have been stylish, it was characterized by grit and determination.

On my taxi ride to the Parc des Princes, the driver, a Marseille fan, remarked that Konate doesn’t receive the credit he deserves in France. He could be right, but Real Madrid is certainly watching