Complex sentence: A poor start in the group stages, with two losses in their first five games, had the club facing elimination; however, a 3--1 victory over Greek side Olympiacos eventually ensured their passage to the knock-out rounds.
Split into simpler sentences: A poor start in the group stages, with two losses in their first five games, had the club facing elimination. However, a 3--1 victory over Greek side Olympiacos eventually ensured their passage to the knock-out rounds.