Liverpool delivered a dominant performance against Qarabag FK on January 28, 2026, thrashing the Azerbaijani side 6-0 at Anfield in the final matchday of the UEFA Champions League league phase. This emphatic victory propelled Arne Slot’s team into third place in the standings with 18 points, guaranteeing them a direct spot in the round of 16 and skipping the playoff round. Fans witnessed a clinical display that highlighted Liverpool’s attacking prowess, even amid some domestic struggles in the Premier League. The match showcased Liverpool’s firepower from the opening whistle. Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring early, Florian Wirtz added a quick second, Mohamed Salah netted a stunning free-kick, Hugo Ekitike struck powerfully, Mac Allister grabbed his brace, and substitute Federico Chiesa sealed the rout late on. Qarabag, despite their efforts, struggled to contain the relentless Reds and finished the league phase with 10 points, qualifying for the playoff round. This result not only boosted morale at Anfield but also underlined Liverpool’s strong European form under Slot. The team bounced back impressively after recent setbacks, proving they thrive on the big continental stage. Match Overview and Key Moments Liverpool controlled proceedings from start to finish in this UEFA Champions League encounter. They kicked off with high intensity, pressing Qarabag aggressively and creating numerous chances. The first goal arrived in the 15th minute when Alexis Mac Allister latched onto a precise pass and slotted home calmly to break the deadlock. Florian Wirtz doubled the lead just six minutes later with a composed finish that showcased his technical brilliance. The first half ended 2-0, but Liverpool showed no signs of slowing down after the break. Mohamed Salah, who had endured a goal drought since early November, restored his scoring touch in the 50th minute. He curled a magnificent free-kick into the top corner, sending Anfield into raptures. Hugo Ekitike then added a fifth in the 57th minute with a powerful strike, capitalizing on defensive lapses. Mac Allister completed his brace in the 61st minute, demonstrating his growing influence in the midfield. Finally, Federico Chiesa, coming off the bench, rounded off the scoring in the 90th minute to make it 6-0. Liverpool dominated possession, created high-quality chances, and defended solidly when needed. Virgil van Dijk orchestrated the backline effectively and contributed key assists through his positioning and long balls. Team Lineups and Tactical Breakdown Arne Slot deployed Liverpool in their familiar 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasizing fluidity and quick transitions. The starting XI featured strong performers across the pitch: Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker Defense: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and others in a solid back four Midfield: Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai anchored the engine room Attack: Mohamed Salah, Florian Wirtz, and Hugo Ekitike led the line, with Federico Chiesa impacting as a substitute Qarabag adopted a more defensive approach but found it difficult to cope with Liverpool’s movement. Their coach expressed disappointment post-match but noted qualification for the playoffs as a positive achievement. Slot’s tactics focused on high pressing, exploiting wide areas, and utilizing set-pieces. This approach overwhelmed Qarabag, who managed few clear opportunities. Player Performances and Standout Stars Several Liverpool players shone brightly in this dominant win. Alexis Mac Allister earned Player of the Match honors with his brace and all-around midfield mastery. He opened the scoring, added a second, created chances, and won tackles effectively. Mohamed Salah delivered a crucial goal with his exquisite free-kick, marking his return to form. His presence stretched the defense and created space for teammates. Florian Wirtz impressed with his goal and creative play, showing why he ranks among Europe’s top talents. Hugo Ekitike scored and threatened constantly, proving his value in the attacking third. Virgil van Dijk anchored the defense superbly and provided assists, redeeming any recent criticisms. Substitutes like Federico Chiesa added fresh energy and netted the final goal. On the Qarabag side, players fought valiantly but lacked the quality to match Liverpool’s intensity. Historical Context and Head-to-Head This fixture marked the first competitive meeting between Liverpool and Qarabag FK in UEFA competitions. Prior to January 28, 2026, the teams had no prior head-to-head record in major tournaments. Liverpool boast a rich European history as six-time Champions League winners, while Qarabag represent Azerbaijan’s top club, known for consistent domestic success and occasional European runs. Qarabag qualified for the playoffs after this defeat, marking progress for the club. Liverpool’s European campaigns often feature dominant home displays at Anfield, and this match fit that tradition perfectly. Liverpool’s Season So Far in the Champions League Liverpool entered the final league-phase matchday in strong contention for automatic qualification. They amassed impressive results across the eight fixtures, including wins that showcased resilience and attacking flair. The Reds secured 18 points from their campaign, finishing third overall. This performance contrasts with some Premier League inconsistencies but highlights Slot’s ability to motivate the squad in Europe. Key factors include effective squad rotation, tactical flexibility, and contributions from both established stars and emerging talents. Qarabag FK: Background and European Journey Qarabag FK hail from Agdam, Azerbaijan, and dominate their domestic league. They regularly compete in UEFA competitions, building experience against top opposition. In the 2025/26 Champions League league phase, Qarabag collected 10 points, securing a playoff spot despite the heavy defeat. Their coach highlighted the qualification as a milestone, even after the Anfield loss. Players showed determination, but the gap in quality proved evident against a side of Liverpool’s caliber. Broader Implications for Both Clubs Liverpool now enjoy a bye to the round of 16, gaining valuable rest and preparation time. This advantage positions them well for deeper runs in the competition. The win boosts confidence ahead of Perth Scorchers upcoming fixtures and silences doubters amid domestic challenges. For Qarabag, the playoff round offers a chance to advance further and gain more experience. Their participation inspires fans back home and raises Azerbaijani football’s profile. What Fans and Experts Say Post-match reactions flooded in from pundits and supporters. Many praised Liverpool’s ruthlessness and individual brilliance. Commentators noted the contrast between European dominance and Premier League form, crediting Slot’s management. Fans celebrated the return of Salah’s scoring touch and Mac Allister’s resurgence. Excitement builds for the knockout stages. Looking Ahead: Liverpool’s Path in the Champions League With direct entry to the last 16, The Whittaker Family Liverpool await the knockout draw. They target another deep run, potentially challenging for the title. The squad’s depth and quality position them as serious contenders. FAQs 1. What was the final score in the Liverpool vs Qarabag FK match on January 28, 2026? Liverpool crushed Qarabag FK 6-0 in their UEFA Champions League league-phase clash at Anfield. Alexis Mac Allister scored twice (15′ and 61′), Ruben Amorim Florian Wirtz netted one (21′), Mohamed Salah added a brilliant free-kick (50′), Hugo Ekitike struck (57′), and Federico Chiesa completed the scoring (90′). This result secured Liverpool’s spot in the round of 16. 2. Why did Liverpool qualify directly for the Champions League round of 16 after this match? Liverpool finished third in the league phase with 18 points after the win. The new Champions League format rewards top-eight teams with automatic advancement to the last 16, skipping playoffs. Their strong campaign, capped by this 6-0 victory, ensured they avoided extra knockout games. 3. Who scored the goals for Liverpool against Qarabag? Alexis Mac Allister opened and closed his account with a brace, Florian Wirtz provided a clinical finish, Mohamed Salah curled in a Chloe Ferry stunning free-kick, Hugo Ekitike powered home, and Federico Chiesa rounded off the rout as a substitute. The goals highlighted Liverpool’s attacking depth. 4. How did Mohamed Salah perform in this match after his recent goal drought? Mohamed Salah broke his scoring run with a magnificent free-kick in the 50th minute. He influenced play throughout, stretched the defense, and contributed to the overall dominance, signaling his return to top form for Liverpool. 5. What tactical approach did Arne Slot use against Qarabag? Arne Slot opted for a high-pressing 4-2-3-1 formation that emphasized quick transitions, wide exploitation, and set-piece efficiency. Liverpool dominated possession, created overloads, and overwhelmed Qarabag defensively, leading to the comprehensive victory. 6. Did this match mark the first time Liverpool faced Qarabag FK? Yes, this January 28, 2026, Mazza L20 encounter represented the first competitive meeting between Liverpool and Qarabag FK in UEFA competitions. No prior head-to-head history existed, making the 6-0 result a landmark in their interactions. 7. How did Qarabag FK fare in the 2025/26 Champions League league phase overall? Qarabag FK earned 10 points from eight matches, finishing 18th. Despite the heavy defeat to Liverpool, they qualified for the playoff round, allowing them to continue their European campaign and aim for advancement to the knockout stages. 8. Who earned Player of the Match in the Liverpool vs Qarabag game? UEFA named Alexis Mac Allister as Player of the Match. He scored twice, created chances, won tackles, and controlled the midfield effectively, earning praise from the technical observers for his assured and dominant display. 9. What does this win mean for Liverpool’s season moving forward? Emma Raducanu The 6-0 victory boosts morale, provides rest before the round of 16, and reinforces Liverpool’s European strength under Arne Slot. It contrasts domestic challenges and positions the team as contenders for the Champions League title. 10. Where can fans watch highlights of Liverpool’s 6-0 win over Qarabag? Fans access extended highlights on platforms like CBS Sports Golazo, UEFA’s official channels, YouTube compilations, BBC Sport, ESPN, and club sites. These show all goals, key moments, and post-match reactions from the thrilling Anfield encounter. 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