Liverpool and Bournemouth could make Premier League history by playing a dramatic one-off match to decide which team qualifies for the Champions League. Both clubs are vying for a spot in Europe's elite competition ahead of the final day of the Premier League season on Sunday.
Current Standings and Scenarios
Bournemouth were on course to come within a point of Liverpool before conceding a late equaliser in Tuesday's 1-1 draw at home to Manchester City. Now the gap is three points, with Liverpool set to host Brentford while Bournemouth travel to Nottingham Forest. Liverpool also hold a superior goal difference, being six goals better off than the Cherries.
However, a specific scenario could see both teams finish dead level, triggering an unprecedented play-off. If Bournemouth beat Forest exactly 5-0 and Liverpool lose 1-0 to Brentford, they would both end the season on 59 points, with 63 goals scored and 53 conceded.
Tiebreakers
Head-to-head results would be the first tiebreaker, but those are nearly identical. Liverpool beat Bournemouth 4-2 at Anfield on the opening night of the season, while the Cherries secured a 3-2 victory on the south coast in January. In the event that head-to-head results are the same, the number of away goals scored in the two matches is the next deciding factor. Since those are also equal, a one-off match would be required to finally separate them.
The fixture, which could go to extra time and penalties, would take place at a neutral venue on an unspecified date. It would mark the first play-off in Premier League history.
Alternative Routes to Champions League
Bournemouth have another path to the Champions League even if they finish below Liverpool. If Aston Villa win their Europa League final against Freiburg on Wednesday and finish fifth in the Premier League, sixth place would become a Champions League spot. For that to happen, Villa would need to lose their final game away to Manchester City while Liverpool beat Brentford, pushing the Reds up to fourth.
However, Bournemouth are not guaranteed sixth place. They will miss out if they lose to Nottingham Forest and Brighton win their home game against Manchester United.
