The UEFA Champions League roars back to life with a colossal showdown this week as two titans of European football collide. Under the dazzling Anfield lights, Liverpool will aim to edge closer to securing their spot in the knockout rounds, but standing in their way is the indomitable Real Madrid.
A heavyweight clash of history, pride, and ambition awaits on Wednesday night—this is football at its most electrifying.
Liverpool stand proudly atop their Champions League group and are thriving under the inspired leadership of Arne Slot. Fresh off a thrilling 3-2 win against Southampton, the Reds are brimming with confidence as they prepare to welcome European royalty, Real Madrid, to Anfield.
Injury concerns still linger for Liverpool, with key figures like Alisson Becker, Diogo Jota, Federico Chiesa, and Trent Alexander-Arnold sidelined. However, there’s a glimmer of hope for Alexander-Arnold’s return on Wednesday - a potential boost that could sway this titanic clash.
After a shaky defensive display at St. Mary’s, Slot is likely to reshuffle his lineup. The dynamic South American duo of Alexis Mac Allister and Luis Diaz is expected to start, adding flair and firepower to Liverpool’s attack as they seek redemption and dominance on the biggest stage.
LIVERPOOL predicted lineup vs REAL MADRID: Kelleher (GK); Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz; Nunez.
Real Madrid, shockingly languishing in 18th place in the Champions League standings, are desperate to reignite their campaign as they prepare for a colossal showdown against Liverpool at Anfield. Fresh off a commanding 3-0 triumph over Leganés, Los Blancos are eyeing a similar statement performance on Wednesday.
However, Madrid’s quest for redemption faces a major blow, as Brazilian sensation Vinícius Júnior has been ruled out with a hamstring injury suffered during their weekend victory. With no set recovery timeline, he joins an overcrowded treatment room that already includes David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Rodrygo, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Lucas Vázquez.
While manager Carlo Ancelotti hinted that Tchouaméni and Vázquez might still feature, it’s more likely Madrid will field an unchanged squad from their Leganés success. Against Liverpool’s ferocious form, this battle will test the mettle of Ancelotti’s depleted side, who must summon their trademark resilience to avoid further Champions League misery.
REAL MADRID predicted lineup vs LIVERPOOL: Courtois (GK); Valverde, Asencio, Rudiger, Mendy; Camavinga, Modric; Guler, Bellingham, Diaz; Mbappe.
Real Madrid are the undisputed kings of the Champions League, and when the lights shine brightest, they always seem to deliver. On Wednesday, Los Blancos will need every ounce of that legendary pedigree to make a bold statement and revive their faltering campaign.
Liverpool, meanwhile, have flourished under Arne Slot, showcasing thrilling attacking football. Yet, their defensive frailties have surfaced at crucial moments, leaving the door ajar for opportunistic opponents. With both sides possessing immense quality but showing signs of vulnerability, this heavyweight clash is primed for a dramatic stalemate that could leave fans breathless.
The prediction? A hard-fought draw. Both sides have the firepower to change the game but may cancel each other out in a gripping battle that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
LIVERPOOL VS REAL MADRID
3.90
DRAW
