Liverpool need to avoid defeat against Brentford on the final day of the Premier League season to secure their place in next season's Champions League. However, even a loss could be enough, provided it is not by a heavy margin, as the Reds currently hold a three-point lead over Bournemouth with a superior goal difference.
Bournemouth's Challenge
Bournemouth's 17-match unbeaten run was extended with a draw against Manchester City, which confirmed Arsenal as champions but also kept the Cherries in the hunt for fifth place. They trail Liverpool by three points and would need to beat Nottingham Forest while hoping Liverpool lose to Brentford, with a six-goal swing in goal difference required to overtake the Reds.
Andoni Iraola's side know that European football is already secured, but Champions League qualification remains a long shot. Liverpool, meanwhile, face the prospect of missing out on the top competition, which would be a major disappointment after their title win last season and a summer spending spree of £450 million.
Liverpool's Form and Injury News
Liverpool have struggled with injuries and tactical issues throughout the campaign, and a defeat to Brentford earlier in the season at the Gtech Community Stadium serves as a warning. However, the Reds have never lost to the Bees at Anfield in the Premier League. Manager Arne Slot has hinted that striker Alexander Isak could return for the final match.
European Qualification Scenarios
The final composition of Premier League teams in European competitions depends heavily on Aston Villa's results. If Villa win the Europa League and finish fifth, the top six will all qualify for the Champions League, with seventh entering the Europa League and eighth the Conference League. If Villa do not win the Europa League or finish fifth, then fifth and sixth qualify for the Europa League, seventh for the Conference League.
Bournemouth's midfielder Alex Scott expressed pride in the club's achievement: "Massive. For this club where it was, fighting in League Two. Nearly going bust, it's amazing."
