Liverpool have been drawn against Sparta Prague in the Europa League round of 16, setting up an intriguing matchup for the Merseyside club in Jurgen Klopp's final season. The draw sees Liverpool, who topped their group, facing off against Slavia Prague, who overcame Galatasaray in the playoff round.
The first leg of the tie will take place at Sparta's Letná Stadium, with the return leg scheduled to be held at Anfield. Liverpool, who are currently in contention in multiple competitions, have the opportunity to secure their first silverware of the season as they prepare to face Chelsea in the Carabao Cup final.
Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen, who are enjoying an unbeaten season and sit comfortably atop the Bundesliga table, have been drawn against Qarabag. Alonso, who has been linked with the Liverpool managerial role following Klopp's announcement of his departure, will be looking to guide his team to success in the Europa League.
Other notable matchups in the Europa League round of 16 include Marseille facing Villarreal, Roma taking on Brighton, and last year's Europa Conference League winners West Ham squaring off against Freiburg.
The Europa League final is set to be held at the Dublin Arena in Ireland on May 22, with teams vying for a chance to lift the prestigious trophy.
The full Europa League round of 16 draw is as follows:
- Sparta Prague vs. Liverpool
- Marseille vs. Villarreal
- Roma vs. Brighton
- Benfica vs. Rangers
- Freiburg vs. West Ham
- Sporting CP vs. Atalanta
- AC Milan vs. Slavia Prague
- Qarabag vs. Bayer Leverkusen
