Liverpool can clinch Champions League last-16 qualification by beating Qarabag at Anfield. Punters should favour a Liverpool win — consider a single on Liverpool to win or a -1 (handicap) market rather than large accumulators; a clean-sheet or -1 handicap offers better value given Qarabag’s low ranking and Liverpool’s European form.
Liverpool aim to seal Champions League last-16 spot with Qarabag test at Anfield
Liverpool head into the Qarabag clash needing a home victory to guarantee progression to the Champions League last 16. The Reds occupy fourth place in the group on 15 points; Bayern Munich sit second on 18 with a superior goal difference, making it unlikely Liverpool will climb above third.
What a win would mean
A win at Anfield would secure Liverpool’s place in the knockout rounds and remove the uncertainty of a two-legged playoff. Securing fourth — or even third if results swing their way — would determine the quality of opponents they could face in the round of 16 and beyond.
Potential round-of-16 and quarter-final opponents
Based on current standings, Liverpool could face teams such as Atalanta or Inter in earlier knockout ties. A tie with Inter would be one of the tougher tests, despite Liverpool’s 1-0 win at the San Siro earlier in the campaign. Quarter-final scenarios could potentially throw up clashes with Tottenham, PSG, Manchester City or Atletico Madrid — any of which would be challenging for the Reds.
Form, key moments and squad notes
Liverpool arrive after a morale-boosting European win over Marseille, though domestic form has been patchy. Dominik Szoboszlai’s late penalty sealed the San Siro victory, highlighting Liverpool’s ability to grind out results. Injuries, rotation and fixture congestion will influence selection decisions ahead of the knockout phase.
Draw timing and implications for the route to Budapest
The draw for the round of 16, quarter-finals and semi-finals takes place on February 27, which will determine which half of the bracket Liverpool land in — the side currently occupied by Arsenal or the side with Bayern Munich. That draw will clarify the likely pathway to the final in Budapest on May 30.
Betting implications for punters
Qarabag’s low standing in the group makes Liverpool clear favourites at Anfield.
Punters looking for lower-risk options should consider a straight Liverpool win or a Liverpool -1 handicap.
For better odds, a small stake on Liverpool to win to nil or an Asian -1.5 could offer value — avoid overexposing stakes in large accumulators given the inherent unpredictability of cup football. Bet responsibly.
Liverpool could face a daunting path to the Champions League final after the league phase is wrapped up this week.
Express
