UEFA Champions League 2018-19: Group C Qualification Scenarios Explained

#3 Liverpool

Liverpool's loss to PSG last night has complicated their path to the Round of 16

For the Reds, it's simple. They HAVE to beat Napoli at Anfield, and even that may not be enough, depending on the scoreline.

If PSG win, then Liverpool's qualification will depend on a win against Napoli by two goals - or a 1-0 scoreline.

That is because the Reds would be tied on 9 points with Napoli if they win. PSG would be on 11 points with a win. The head-to-head record would come into play to separate Liverpool and Napoli.

Napoli beat the Reds 1-0 in the game at the San Paolo Stadium. So, if Liverpool win 1-0 at Anfield, the head-to-head would be tied up and both teams would then be tied on goal difference as well. But the Reds would have the upper hand on the goals scored criteria, which would put them through to the knockout stage.

If Liverpool win by one goal, after having conceded one or more goals, Napoli would go through. They would have the upper hand on the head-to-head criteria based on the away goals rule.

If PSG lose, any win for the Reds against Napoli would see them through, with the group topper being decided based on the above-stated criteria between them and Napoli.

If PSG draw and Liverpool win, the Reds would top the group based on having more points in the mini-league between PSG, Napoli and themselves. All three teams would be tied on nine points, necessitating the look at the mini-league. The Reds would have six points and the other two would be tied on five.