Carlo Ancelotti says he thinks that FC Basel are the more likely team to join Real Madrid in qualifying from UEFA Champions League Group B, as they are a better side than Liverpool.
While Real Madrid have topped the group, both the Swiss champions and ourselves have control of our fates – a Reds win at Anfield will see us through despite the media negativity at the moment.
“I think Basel are currently better than Liverpool,” Ancelotti is quoted as telling Goal.com.
“I see a small advantage for Basel for the last round.”
While we could only manage a draw with FC Ludogorets last night – thanks to a Simon Mignolet error and our continued failure to defend set pieces – our play was better than in recent weeks, and there were signs of encouragement.
It’s fair to say that Liverpool were comprehensively defeated by Real Madrid both home and away, but Basel managed to lose to Ludogorets in Bulgaria on Matchday Three, as well as both ties against Ancelotti’s men.
Many Reds fans would have taken this scenario when the group stage was drawn. Real Madrid were always likely group winners, and for us to have the chance to defeat FC Basel – at Anfield – when they have lost all other away fixtures is a real opportunity.
We’re not relying on anyone else. It’s in our hands, and we can defeat anyone at Anfield.