Europa League Quarter-Final Showdown
In the highly anticipated Europa League quarter-final draw, Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen have been slated for a potential clash in the Europa League finals, setting the stage for an exhilarating encounter. Liverpool, fresh off an impressive 11-2 aggregate victory over Sparta Prague, are considered strong favorites for the title, aiming to secure their fourth UEFA Cup/Europa League trophy.
The draw, conducted in Nyon, Switzerland, has pitted Liverpool against Serie A side Atalanta, marking a rematch of their encounters during the 2020-21 Champions League group stage. Meanwhile, West Ham, under the guidance of manager David Moyes, will face Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen, who remain unbeaten in an impressive streak spanning 37 matches across all competitions.
Jurgen Klopp’s potential final game as Liverpool manager could see him facing off against former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso, who currently manages Bayer Leverkusen and is rumored to be a frontrunner for the Liverpool managerial position.
AC Milan and Roma will engage in an all-Italian quarter-final clash, with Benfica and Marseille rounding out the remaining tie. The semi-final draw, held concurrently, ensures that Liverpool and West Ham will be kept apart until the final, raising the stakes for both teams as they vie for European glory.
With Liverpool touted as favorites by bookmakers, the possibility of a farewell triumph for Klopp adds further intrigue to their campaign. However, West Ham’s impressive form and determination to replicate their success in the Europa Conference League last season make them formidable contenders in their quest for European silverware.
Quarterfinals draw
- AC Milan vs. Roma
- Liverpool vs. Atalanta
- Bayer Leverkusen vs. West Ham
- Benfica vs. Marseille
Semifinals draw
Benfica or Marseille vs. Liverpool or Atalanta
AC Milan or Roma vs. Bayer Leverkusen or West Ham
The first legs of the quarter-final ties are scheduled for April 11, with the return fixtures set for April 18. The semi-finals will commence on May 2, with the final slated for May 22 in Dublin. As the tournament progresses, football fans worldwide eagerly anticipate the thrilling battles that lie ahead on the road to Europa League glory.
