Group B: Real Madrid, FC Basel, Liverpool, Ludogorets
Overview: This is the group in which everyone ends up happy. Holder Real Madrid avoids a banana-skin side from Pot 2, while FC Basel and Liverpool, back in the competition after a five-year absence, will both see chances to progress. But perhaps the story here is the unlikely presence of Bulgarian champion Ludogorets, who qualified in the most unlikely manner: Needing a last-minute equalizer against Steaua Bucharest, and then a penalty shootout in which center back Cosmin Moti went in goal (after the regular goalkeeper was sent off), only to save two penalties. His reward? A trip to Santiago Bernabeu and Anfield — well deserved.
The big question: Liverpool may not have Luis Suarez, but can Mario Balotelli help it leapfrog FC Basel and get out of this group?
Tip to progress: Real Madrid, Liverpool
