Liverpool’s Champions League Qualification is just one step away…
The Reds remain in pole position to qualify for next year’s Champions League by finishing in the Top 4 but it seems they have made things difficult for themselves with recent draws against West Brom and Stoke City – both of whom are currently battling relegation.
On the other hand, their closest challenger, Chelsea, have won three consecutive matches against Southampton, Burnley, and Swansea City. This has closed the gap between the two sides to a mere six points, with Chelsea also possessing a game-in-hand.
Klopp’s men are currently sitting 3rd in the league table with 72 points and two games remaining. Meanwhile, Antonio Conte’s side have 66 points and are currently 5th with three games at their disposal. Liverpool and Chelsea are going head-to-head next weekend, and the clash will ultimately decide the fate of both teams. Even a stalemate will likely be enough for Liverpool to secure the Champions League spot for 2018/19.
A draw will see both sides level on 73 points, but a better goal difference will see The Reds through unless Chelsea can muster up an average of six goals in their remaining game. If Chelsea manage to beat Liverpool at Stamford Bridge then Liverpool must overcome Brighton & Hove Albion in the final league game of the season to confirm their European berth.
ON THIS DAY: In 2014, Liverpool 0-2 Chelsea.
You know the rest. 😬😬😬 pic.twitter.com/t6xJ1sdIVL
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) April 27, 2018
Some fans are especially jittery due to the club’s tumultuous end to the 2013/14 season. The situation was similar when Brendan Rodgers was in charge, albeit Liverpool were fighting for the title at the time. A 3-2 victory against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium meant the equation was in Liverpool’s favour – but they crumbled under the pressure. A loss against Chelsea and a draw against Crystal Palace saw them finish 2nd behind the grateful Citizens.
This time, however, it is much simpler for Klopp’s side as the numbers are more resolute and their squad is arguably stronger and more confident. Injuries to Emre Can, Adam Lallana, Joel Matip, and Alex Oxlade Chamberlin have seen the aforementioned depth plummet – but the club has faith in their manager as he’s succeeded in injecting new life in the team and fans since taking charge. The only other option, of course, is marching on to win this year’s edition of the Champions League; a route that requires a tremendous level of effort and adds an unnecessary layer of stress.