Liverpool became the first team to guarantee a place in the last 16 of the new Champions League format by beating Lille 2-1 on Tuesday, while Barcelona fought back from two goals down to stun Benfica 5-4 in a thriller.

Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Lille on Tuesday secured their place in the Champions League last-16The result could prove instrumental not just in Europe but also in their Premier League

Liverpool have won 2-1 against Lille in their Champions League match at Anfield. Mohamed Salah scored on the counter-attack in the first half and the hosts were cruising when Lille’s Aissa Mandi was sent off for a second bookable offence.

Liverpool secured victory over Lille at Anfield as Arne Slot's men guarantee a top-eight finish in the Champions League group stage

Liverpool host Lille at Anfield looking to maintain their perfect record in the UEFA Champions League league phase.

Liverpool fans say Kostas Tsimikas is currently better than Andrew Robertson as the Reds beat Lille in the Champions League.

Liverpool cruised from there and secured not only the win, but a direct berth to the round of 16 in the Champions League. Skipping the first round of the knockout stage will give the Reds time to regroup and focus on maintaining their pace in the Premier League amid challengers.

Liverpool fans, brace yourselves for another thrilling night of Champions League action at Anfield as Arne Slot prepares his side to take on Lille. With a stellar record in Europe this season, Liverpool’s latest challenge brings a team on a hot streak and packed with talent.

Avoiding the play-offs, meanwhile, also ensures a clear week prior to travelling to Manchester City and hosting Newcastle in the space of four days in late February. For now, focus turns to overcoming Ipswich, who’ll be keen to recover from their 6-0 loss to City, this weekend.

Straight-talking and seemingly bulletproof in the press conference chair, Arne Slot has mixed tactical insight with humour during his time as Liverpool’s head coach. A sharp, intelligent communicator, he is unafraid to correct mistakes.

Arne Slot's Liverpool remain on top in the Premier League and Champions League but need to decide whether to add to their ranks before the January transfer window shuts