Liverpool permutations: What Jurgen Klopp's side need to reach Champions League last 16 against Napoli

Liverpool know only a particular type of victory will guarantee qualification

Mark Critchley
Northern Football Correspondent
Tuesday 11 December 2018 13:27 GMT
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Liverpool have won two and lost three of their Champions League group games
Liverpool have won two and lost three of their Champions League group games (Getty)

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Liverpool welcome Napoli to Anfield on Tuesday night with their hopes of reaching the Champions League knock-out stages in the balance.

After losing all three of their away games in Group C, Jürgen Klopp’s side know only a particular type of victory will guarantee qualification.

Group leaders Napoli only require a draw to progress to the round of 16, while second-place Paris Saint-Germain must negotiate a tricky trip to Red Star Belgrade.

Bottom-of-the-group Red Star, unbeaten at home since the October of last year, can still finish third and reach the Europa League.

For Liverpool, a draw or defeat will not be enough. Even if they win, the margin of victory and/or results elsewhere will come into play.

Permutations

If Liverpool win...

... 1-0 or by at least two clear goals (3-1, 4-2, etc): Liverpool will qualify.

... 2-1, 3-2, 4-3, etc and PSG win: Liverpool will go out.

... by any score and PSG draw or lose: Liverpool will qualify.

If Liverpool draw or lose...

Liverpool will go out.

Group C

Pre-Champions League Matchday 6

Pos Team P W D L GD Pts
1 Napoli 5 2 3 0 3 9
2 Paris S-G 5 2 2 1 5 8
3 Liverpool 5 2 0 3 1 6
4 Red Star Belgrade 5 1 1 3 -9 4

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