Salah Ends Drought as Liverpool Thrash Qarabag 6-0

Anfield (Web Desk) -Mohamed Salah rediscovered his scoring touch as Liverpool produced a dominant 6-0 victory over Qarabag on Wednesday, sealing their place in the Champions League last 16 and easing pressure on manager Arne Slot.

The Reds overwhelmed the Azerbaijani side at Anfield, taking control early with first-half goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Florian Wirtz. Salah added the third shortly after the break, marking his first goal since November 1 and ending an eight-match scoring drought.

The Egyptian forward struck on his 80th Champions League appearance for Liverpool, equalling the club record. His goal came after a turbulent spell that saw him dropped from the starting lineup, prompting public comments about feeling sidelined under Slot. The two later reconciled before Salah’s departure for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Liverpool continued their onslaught with Hugo Ekitike netting the fourth, while Mac Allister grabbed his second and Federico Chiesa completed the rout in stoppage time. It was Liverpool’s biggest win in all competitions since 2023.

Ben Stokes Calls Final Ashes Test a ‘Huge Game’ for England

The result secured Liverpool’s automatic qualification for the last 16 and ensured they avoid the play-off round. Finishing third in the league phase also grants them the advantage of hosting the second leg of their knockout tie.

Speaking after the match, Slot praised his team’s display but insisted there was room for improvement, particularly in both penalty areas. Mac Allister highlighted the importance of skipping the play-offs in an already demanding season.

Despite the heavy defeat, Qarabag progressed to the Champions League play-offs after finishing 22nd overall.

The win was timely for Slot, who has faced mounting criticism amid Liverpool’s inconsistent Premier League form. While the Reds trail leaders Arsenal by 14 points, progress in the Champions League and FA Cup has kept hopes of silverware alive.