The 2-1 victory over Lille helped Liverpool win all 7 matches in the group stage of the Champions League in the new format so far. Coach Arne Slot's team has secured a place in the knockout round before a match.
Not only that, the 3 points against Lille also helped The Kop secure a position in the top 2 when they are currently 5 points ahead of the 3rd-placed team Arsenal. Perhaps the only threat for Liverpool at the moment is Barcelona, who are second with three points less.
However, Slot believes Liverpool's goal is not to fall out of the top 8 and avoid the play-off matches. "It's not really important to finish first or second, it's important to miss a round. This helps the team save energy and focus more on the next big challenges" - the Dutch strategist said.
In general, regardless of whether Liverpool are first or second, Slot's team still has a huge advantage in the rest of the tournament. Remember, home field always gives Liverpool great strength in European Cup matches. They had many iconic moments at Anfield.
Liverpool will now enter the round of 16 with a seed advantage. In theory, this will help them have easier matches. More importantly, by being in the top 2, Liverpool always ensures home advantage for the return matches in all matches of the knockout round.
However, the level of difficulty Liverpool are facing is only clear until the Champions League rankings are determined next week.
Up to now, Liverpool have earned 40.1 million Euros from the group stage matches of the Champions League this season. If they finish first in the group, they will receive an additional 10 million Euros, bringing their total income to 50.1 million Euros.
With stability and high determination, Liverpool not only aims to bring home titles but also make the most of opportunities to increase financial revenue. They want to consolidate their position on the map of European football under Slot.
"We are definitely among the strongest teams at the moment. Liverpool's goals say why we are top of the Champions League.
The only thing I'm not happy with is that the opponent had a chance and then it became a goal. But I am still very satisfied that Liverpool have secured a place in the top 8" - the Dutch strategist added.
