Liverpool avoided the play‑off round by finishing in the top eight of the Premier League, giving them breathing space to watch the draw on 27 February. The 5‑2 victory by Galatasaray over Juventus in Istanbul has narrowed the field, leaving Liverpool to face one of Galatasaray, Juventus, Club Brugge or Atlético Madrid. Tottenham will take the alternate tie.
A potential quarter‑final against Paris Saint‑Germain looms if Liverpool progress, a side that eliminated the Reds last season. Liverpool also lost to Galatasaray in the league phase, a reminder that European nights can swing on atmosphere as much as skill.