Liverpool Must “Take Nothing for Granted” in Champions League vs. Lille
Lille will be desperate for a result and to hold on to their position in the Champions League top eight when they face Liverpool at Anfield.
With two games to play in the league phase of the Champions League, Liverpool are top of the table and the only undefeated team left. A place in the knockout rounds is guaranteed and they are all but mathematically assured of a bye straight to the Round of 16.
The goal, though, is to turn “all but” into certainty when it comes to a playoff round bye. There is also a benefit to finishing top two in the league phase, with higher placement meaning higher prize money but also a likely more favourable Round of 16 opponent.
“A lot has been said about what we have done in the competition, but there is still work to be done,” Liverpool manager Arne Slot said ahead of his side’s home game against Lille. “As things stand, we are masters of our own destiny—we should make the most of this.”
“Lille have shown their quality this season and have their own objectives for qualification, having recorded victories against Sturm Graz, Bologna, Atletico Madrid, and Real Madrid. Those wins tell us everything we need to know about what Lille are capable of.”
Lille are currently eighth in the tabvle, the final position that earns a first round bye, with Dortmund, Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, and AC Milan all just a point behind them. Liverpool’s opponents, then, will be highly motivated heading into tonight’s match.
“No doubt they will be looking for a special night,” Slot added. “We must do everything that we can to stop this happening. This will not be easy, though, and makes it even more important we take nothing for granted and keep on working and building together.”
Source: liverpooloffside.sbnation.com
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