For the first time in Premier League history, there could be a 39th league game played between two clubs, instead of the usual 38. Premier League chiefs have confirmed that Liverpool and West Ham could become the first two league sides two play one extra game for a place in next season’s Europa League. Here’s why:
There is a possibility that the two clubs could finish level on points, goal difference and goals scored on Sunday. If that happens, then they will have to play an extra game to determine the club that qualifies for next season’s European competition. Although the possibility of such an incident to occur is quite low, it may happen only if:
- Liverpool beat West Brom 2-1 and West Ham lose 1-0 to Stoke City- both clubs will be tied on goal difference and points.
- If West Ham lose 2-1 and Liverpool win 3-2 at West Brom – both clubs will be tied on goal difference and points.
Most importantly, for such a scenario to happen, Southampton must lose to Crystal Palace.
However, the play-off will not be necessary if Liverpool beat Sevilla in the final of the Europa League on May 18th in Basel. A victory for the Merseyside club will guarantee qualification to the Champions League next season, hence making it five English teams in the competition for the first time ever.
However, if Jurgen Klopp’s men fail to win Europa League and finish the league tied with the Hammers both on goal difference and points, then the play-off will be staged at a neutral venue either immediately or after Euro 2016.
Match details, result and original broadcast info
Stoke City 2 - 1 West Ham United
May 15, 2016 10:00amBritannia Stadium (Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire)This match has ended. Below are the original Live broadcast details for this match.
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