Potential Champions League Knockout Stage Scenarios Liverpool Could Face

Liverpool will learn their last-16 foe and the tournament bracket leading to the Champions League final this weekend. With the continent's top tournament entering its elimination stage, the potential "ideal" and "worst-case" draws for The Kop are now fairly evident.

Liverpool will face one of two teams: Atletico Madrid or Galatasaray in the last 16 next month. Atletico secured their progression by defeating Club Brugge, while Galatasaray needed extra time to overcome Juventus in Turin.

Not only will the Round of 16 matchups be decided during the draw ceremony. According to the modern Champions League format, implemented since last season, the draw will also outline the potential tournament path for Arne Slot and his squad all the way to the final in May.

With the final 16 teams confirmed, it's possible to envision Liverpool ending up in one of two situations: a favorably smooth path, or a harshly difficult "nightmare" route.

Dream Scenario

Liverpool only have two options for the Round of 16: Galatasaray or Atletico. Which opponent they draw will determine which half of the bracket they are placed in.

Theoretically, the bracket containing Atletico is considered the more manageable path. If Liverpool once again overcome Diego Simeone's team, they could meet Newcastle in the quarter-finals, provided Eddie Howe's men get past either Chelsea or Barcelona.

If they defeat Newcastle, Liverpool fans would certainly welcome a semi-final against the tournament's surprise package, Bodo/Glimt. It might sound improbable, but this possibility exists and represents the "dream" scenario for The Kop to reach the final.

Even if placed in the other half of the bracket, Liverpool could still find themselves on a relatively favorable journey. Beating Galatasaray might lead them to a quarter-final against Chelsea – an option viewed as more agreeable than facing PSG or Barcelona. Furthermore, the semi-final could potentially be a clash with Sporting Lisbon.

Nightmare Scenario

Regardless of which bracket they are in, Liverpool could still face immense challenges. What constitutes a true "nightmare" depends on whether Liverpool assesses Galatasaray or Atletico as the tougher test in the Round of 16.

Drawing either of those opponents could lead to Liverpool meeting Barcelona in the quarter-finals, followed by a confrontation with Arsenal in the semi-finals.

There's also the possibility of a repeat encounter with PSG in the quarter-finals like last season, while the prospect of facing Bayern Munich or Manchester City in the semi-finals is certainly not appealing, especially since Liverpool have lost twice to Pep Guardiola's side this season. And of course, Real Madrid is an opponent any team would prefer to avoid in a knockout match.

The answer will be revealed after the bracket draw ceremony takes place at 18:00 on February 27th in Switzerland.