FC Barcelona achieved a golden victory at Borussia Dortmund's ground (2-3) which, in addition to allowing them to gain an advantage over a direct rival at the top of the standings, leaves them on the brink of direct qualification for the round of 16 as one of the TOP-8 teams in the league phase. Barça reached 15 points, 3 less than the leader, Liverpool, remaining as the only escort of the 'reds'.
The excellent goal difference of the Catalans (+14) ensured they would finish matchday 6 in second place even if they drew in Germany, but Ferran Torres' second goal in the 85th minute sealed the fifth consecutive victory for the azulgrana team in the tournament. After stumbling in their debut against Monaco (2-1), Hansi Flick's team has won all their matches, with an incredible record of 19 goals for and only 5 against.
A draw is enough for Barça to secure their place in the TOP-8
In this sense, Barça practically has one and a half feet in the Champions round of 16. According to Artificial Intelligence (AI), in the new tournament format, 16.08 points are needed to be among the top eight in the overall table. With six points left to play for, Barça would only need to draw one of them to secure their qualification.
In matchday 7, the Catalans must visit Benfica (January 21). A week later, the team will close the league phase in Montjuïc against Atalanta (January 29). A draw in either of these matches would be enough to finish the group stage within the TOP-8; not to mention a victory in Lisbon or Catalonia.
In the case of Liverpool, the 'reds' are only fighting to maintain their unbeaten record and leadership, a key factor from a financial perspective. Therefore, Barça will not speculate, far from it, in the remaining two matchdays, although the demanding January schedule will allow Hansi Flick to make significant rotations in some of these matches. Regardless of their final position in the table, being within the TOP-8 ensures Barça avoids the 'playoff' and closes the round of 16 tie at home.