Champions League race tilts in Liverpool favor as Reds find consistency in up-and-down season
CBS Sports
by
Pardeep Cattry
March 3, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Liverpool’s inconsistent season has taken a turn for the better, with a recent surge in form propelling them closer to a Champions League spot. After securing six wins in their last seven matches across all competitions, the Reds enter their midweek fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers in fifth place, three points ahead of Chelsea. This newfound consistency has been fueled by a strategic focus on set pieces, which have become a key weapon in their arsenal.
Set pieces have played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s recent success, with the team leading the Premier League in goals scored from such opportunities since the start of the year. Their 5-2 victory over West Ham United, which included three set-piece goals, highlights this trend. While other teams like Arsenal and Manchester City have also capitalized on set pieces, Liverpool’s ability to convert these chances has been particularly effective.
The increased emphasis on set pieces in the Premier League has transformed how teams approach matches, with 27.5% of all goals this season coming from such situations—a record high since the 2016-17 campaign. However, not everyone views this trend positively. Liverpool coach Arne Slot expressed frustration over the league’s focus on set pieces, calling it a “joyless” aspect of modern football. Despite his reservations, he acknowledges the competitive nature of the Premier League has made such strategies essential for success.
Liverpool’s upcoming clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers is expected to be a mismatch on paper, with the Reds looking to extend their lead in the race for a Champions League spot. While the gap between top-tier teams and relegation contenders has narrowed significantly compared to previous seasons, this shift has added unpredictability and excitement to the league.
As Liverpool continue their push for European qualification, their ability to consistently convert set pieces into goals will remain crucial. Whether fans love it or hate it, the Premier League’s reliance on set pieces has undeniably reshaped the game, making every match a potential upset waiting to happen.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 3/3/2026