Champions League: PSG, Marseille & Monaco qualify if…

The final matchday of the Champions League league phase will determine the European fate of three Ligue 1 sides. Paris Saint-Germain, Olympique de Marseille and AS Monaco all remain in contention — but with very different objectives as the new-format table remains finely balanced.

While PSG are pushing for a top-eight finish and direct qualification for the round of 16, Marseille and Monaco must ensure they remain inside the top 24 to book a place in February’s play-offs.

Paris Saint-Germain

Win vs Newcastle
➜ Guaranteed qualification for the round of 16 (top 8)
Draw vs Newcastle
➜ Qualification secured, but likely via the play-offs
➜ Top-eight finish dependent on other results
Defeat vs Newcastle
➜ PSG fall into the play-offs
➜ Risk of losing home advantage in the second leg

With one of the strongest goal differences among the teams on 13 points, PSG still control their own destiny, but the margin for error remains slim.

Olympique de Marseille

Les Olympiens arrive to Belgium with a must-win scenario in front of them. It's not mathematically obligatory, but the game still has a Cup final feel to it with Roberto De Zerbi's side under pressure.

Win at Club Brugge
➜ Play-offs guaranteed regardless of other results
Draw at Club Brugge
➜ Qualification possible, but dependent on results elsewhere
Defeat at Club Brugge
➜ High risk of elimination from the Champions League

Marseille arrive in Belgium under pressure, knowing that anything less than a strong performance could end their European campaign prematurely.

AS Monaco

Monaco face a similar fate to Marseille, but the task looks difficult against one of Italy's most storied side's in recent European history. Juventus might not be the Champions League powerhouse they once were, but Monaco need a result if they are to secure progression in Europe this season.

Win vs Juventus
➜ Play-offs guaranteed
Draw vs Juventus
➜ Qualification still possible, but far from assured
Defeat vs Juventus
➜ Monaco likely eliminated

Monaco’s final match comes at a delicate moment, with form and confidence tested against one of Europe’s most experienced sides.

All eyes on a decisive night

By the end of Wednesday night’s multiplex, Ligue 1 will know how many of its representatives remain in Europe. With tension, permutations and little room for error, the final matchday promises a dramatic conclusion to the league phase.

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