FC Barcelona can still be the leader of the Champions League

On By Littum

FC Barcelona’s epic victory at the Estádio da Luz over Benfica (4-5) allowed them to win their sixth European game in a row. However, Liverpool lead the table after winning all seven games and have 21 points. A win for the Blaugrana and a defeat for Lille would have caused a change at the top of the table, but that was not the case. Arne Slot’s team triumphed at home against the visit of ‘Les Dogues’ (2-1) and maintains its place.

Since first and second have won, The number one spot will still be up for grabs on the final day of the Champions League phase. The British side visit Eindhoven to face PSV, who will be looking to win to ensure they make the play-off for the round of 16. On the other hand, the Blaugranas will play at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Company’s mod Atalantawho will also try to secure their place, in this case among the top eight.

What needs to happen for Barça to be the leader?

This new Champions League format means that almost every team on the final matchday has something at stake, except those that are mathematically eliminated. To avoid speculation and to ensure maximum performance, all matches will thus be played simultaneously Wednesday, January 29 at 9 p.m

FC Barcelona will try to finish the phase as leader of the standings. They already have access to the round of 16 secured. In fact, the worst that could happen is to finish third if they lose and Atlético win away to Salzburg. This possibility is also very remote as goal difference is the criterion that will apply in the event of a tie in points and The Blaugranas are 10 points ahead of the Colchoneros. Therefore, the most likely scenario is that the team led by Hansi Flick will finish in second or first place.

For Barça to finish as the top seed, the most important thing is that they beat Atalanta. Neither a draw nor logically a defeat would make up for the 3-point gap with Liverpool. The next step is for PSV to beat the English team. A draw will allow the ‘Reds’ to finish the league as leaders and likely for their rivals to certify their qualification to the next stage. A complex sporting context, but mathematically feasible.