Liverpool Vs Qarabağ's FK: Live Score, Preview, Lineup, Telecast Details
| Date | Wednesday, January 28, 2026 |
| Time | 08:00 PM GMT (01:30 AM IST Thursday) |
| Venue | Anfield, Liverpool |
| Competition | UEFA Champions League |
🏟️ Anfield Finale: Reds Aim to Secure Direct Last-16 Spot
Liverpool host Qarabag FK tonight in the final matchday of the Champions League league phase, needing a victory to guarantee a top-eight finish and direct entry to the round of 16. Arne Slot's side currently sits fourth in the standings but arrives at this fixture following a disappointing 3-2 Premier League defeat to Bournemouth. Despite domestic struggles, the Reds have been consistent in Europe, winning five of their seven matches so far.
The visitors, Azerbaijani champions Qarabag FK, occupy 18th place and are still fighting for a playoff spot. Known for their bold attacking style, Gurban Gurbanov's side recently earned a notable 2-2 draw with Chelsea and remains a threat on the break. While history favors the home side, Liverpool's injury-plagued defense could provide the visitors with the openings they need to cause an upset at Anfield.
- Event: UEFA Champions League - Matchday 8
- Date: Wednesday, January 28, 2026
- Time: 08:00 PM GMT (01:30 AM IST Thursday)
- Venue: Anfield, Liverpool, England
- Context: Liverpool can secure automatic qualification with a win, bypassing the playoff round.
📊 Team Analysis & Form
Liverpool (Coach: Arne Slot, Form: W W L W W)
Liverpool have been strong at home in Europe, but injuries have severely thinned their defensive ranks. The Reds are currently without key centre-backs Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konaté, the latter missing for personal reasons. With limited options, Wataru Endo may be forced to partner Virgil van Dijk in a makeshift backline. Despite these issues, they have averaged 2.0 goals per game in the Champions League this season.
Qarabag FK (Coach: Gurban Gurbanov, Form: W L L D L)
Qarabag have been one of the league phase's surprise packages, currently sitting in a playoff position with 10 points. They have scored at least twice in eight of their last ten UEFA competition matches, demonstrating their fearless approach against higher-tier opposition. Gurbanov rotated his entire squad in the weekend league defeat to Kapaz to ensure his primary XI is fresh for this critical trip to England.
⭐ Key Players
- Liverpool: Mohamed Salah (Forward) - The talisman is looking to rediscover his best form after a quiet return from the Africa Cup of Nations.
- Liverpool: Dominik Szoboszlai (Midfielder) - Has been a standout performer this season, frequently delivering vital goals in high-stakes European fixtures.
- Qarabag FK: Abdellah Zoubir (Midfielder) - A creative hub for the visitors, his flair and vision will be essential for unlocking Liverpool's depleted defense.
- Qarabag FK: Camilo Durán (Forward) - The primary goal threat for the Azerbaijani champions, expected to lead the line tonight.
🎯 The Key Battlegrounds
- The Defensive Crisis: With only one fit natural centre-back in Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool's ability to deal with Qarabag's rapid transitions will be under immense pressure.
- Midfield Control: Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister must dominate the centre of the park to limit the service to Qarabag's dangerous wingers.
- Anfield's Second-Half Surge: Statistically, over 0.5 goals have been scored in the second half in 37 of Liverpool's last 40 home matches.
🔮 Prediction and Final Word
Liverpool enter the match as heavy favorites with the quality to outscore their opponents, even with a depleted defense. However, Qarabag’s fearless attacking record suggests they are highly likely to find the net at Anfield. An open game is anticipated, with both teams pushing for a result that could define their European seasons.
Predicted Score: Liverpool 3–1 Qarabag FK
Can Arne Slot's men navigate their injury crisis to seal a last-16 place, or will Qarabag pull off a historic result at Anfield? Kick-off is at 01:30 AM IST tonight!
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