Champions League draw details: Date, time and Liverpool’s potential opponents

Liverpool’s season has tilted heavily towards Europe and the Champions League draw details now carry added weight. With domestic form faltering and a title defence unravelling, this competition offers both relevance and relief. Friday morning in Nyon will decide who stands between Arne Slot’s side and a place in the quarter finals, and perhaps a chance to reframe a difficult campaign.

The draw for the last 16 takes place at 11am GMT on Friday February 27. Liverpool earned automatic progression by finishing third in the league phase, a reward that spared them the tension of the knockout play offs and offered a rare note of control in an otherwise uneven season.

Route into last 16 secured early

Finishing third ensured Liverpool avoided February’s extra fixtures and, just as importantly, limited the range of possible opponents. That matters when margins are thin and confidence fragile. The Champions League often punishes hesitation, but it can also revive teams who find clarity in knockout football.

Slot’s Liverpool have looked more comfortable when the stakes are obvious and the task is defined. European nights still sharpen the focus at Anfield, even if the Premier League table tells an uncomfortable story.

Possible opponents and tactical tests

Liverpool will face one of four sides emerging from the knockout play offs, Atletico Madrid, Club Brugge, Galatasaray, or Juventus.

Each presents a distinct challenge. Atletico bring structure and emotional edge, Juventus offer control and experience, Galatasaray deliver intensity and noise, while Club Brugge provide athleticism and organisation. There are no comfortable options at this stage, only varying degrees of difficulty.

Fixture dates and draw implications

In principle, Liverpool will play the first leg away from home on March 10 or 11, before returning to Anfield for the second leg on March 17 or 18. That sequencing matters. Anfield under lights remains a powerful asset, particularly when a tie is alive.

Friday’s draw will also map out the quarter finals and semi finals, allowing clubs to glimpse the broader landscape. For Liverpool, those Champions League draw details matter less than the immediate test. Progress would not erase domestic shortcomings, but it would restore momentum and meaning.

In a season drifting towards disappointment, Europe remains Liverpool’s clearest path to purpose.