Despite Liverpool’s qualification for the Champions League final, the Reds are walking a tight rope that could see them miss the competition next term.
Liverpool can secure fourth on Sunday
Liverpool need just one point in their final Premier League match against Brighton to ensure Champions League football next term. Gaining that one point is easier said than done. The Reds’ form over the six games has been shaky. Jurgen Klopp’s men have only secured nine of 18 points.
The Reds’ form has given Chelsea a lifeline and the Blues could overtake Klopp’s team with a win and Liverpool loss on Sunday.
Liverpool have already seen Tottenham leapfrog them in the standings. As it stands, Liverpool would be forced to play in the Champions League third round qualifying stage. The club did just that to start this season’s European campaign, and remarkably, Liverpool have made it all the way to the final.
The Reds can qualify for next season’s Champions League by defeating Real Madrid in the tournament final on May 26. Real Madrid will be attempting to win their third straight Champions League trophy and Liverpool will have their work cut out for them in Kiev.
Can Liverpool finish third?
A Liverpool win on Sunday against Brighton and a Tottenham loss or draw, would see Klopp’s team finish in third. The Reds have a superior goal difference going into the final day. Tottenham arguably have the more difficult game this weekend as Spurs host ninth place Leicester.
Winning the Champions League final
Winning the European Cup final would see Liverpool qualify automatically for the tournament next term. Chelsea can not benefit from the Reds finishing in the top four and winning this season’s European Cup final. The Blues only chance of qualification is by winning this weekend and Liverpool slipping up.
The only scenario that will see both Liverpool and Chelsea making the Champions League is if the Blues leapfrog Klopp’s team on Sunday and the Reds win the Champions League.
Currently, Chelsea will join Arsenal and Burnley in the Europa League next term.