Sharks must win on Saturday against Ospreys and preferably pick up a bonus point, if they are to stand any chance of qualification for the quarter-finals.
Even then, their fate is in the lap of the Gods as any number of teams are bidding for the two best runners-up spots on offer.
Stade Francais are almost certain to secure the top spot in group three when they take on whipping boys Calvisano, leaving Sharks and Ospreys fighting for second place in their Edgeley Park showdown.
But while their chances may be slim, the never-say-die spirit which has seen Sale overcome a catalogue of injuries and maintain their challenge for honours is still evident in the Sharks camp.
As reported in later editions of yesterday's M.E.N, scrum-half Sililo Martens will miss the remainder of the season with a shoulder injury while number eight Nathan Bonner-Evans will undergo a full knee reconstruction within the next two weeks.
Head coach Kingsley Jones said: "There is still everything to play for - it's a very big game.
"We have to be realistic and say that Stade are odds-on to win the pool with their home game against Calvisano to come and, if they can get a bonus point, then they can't be caught."
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"It means that both ourselves and the Ospreys have to try to get five points to stand any chance of challenging for one of the two best runners-up spots. That is going to make for a great game.
"The one thing you learn about playing in the Heineken Cup is that you can never give up and that anything can happen.
"You have to pay your dues in this great tournament and you learn that everything you scrap for can turn out to be priceless.
"But it is a game that will be about more than just Heineken Cup points.
"We were very unhappy at losing in the dying moments at the Liberty Stadium in the first round and we want to make amends for that.
"It is also a classic Anglo-Welsh match - which always adds a bit of extra sparkle and spice to any occasion."
On Martens' injury, a club spokesman said: "Lilo injured his shoulder against Gloucester in a collision. After consulting a specialist, it has been decided that he will undergo a full shoulder reconstruction and will be out of action for 16-18 weeks."
Meanwhile, one of Sale's other injured players may be on his way out of the club, with Mark Taylor being monitored by Newport Gwent Dragons.
TICKETS are still available for Saturday's clash online at www.salesharks.com or by phoning 08712-220120
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