The excitement of European football returns as Liverpool host Serie A side Bologna at Anfield for their second Champions League group-stage match.
After an impressive win against AC Milan in their previous fixture, the Reds are flying high, and now they face a Bologna side making their long-awaited return to the European stage.
Kickoff Time and Venue
- Location: Anfield, Liverpool, England
- Date: Wednesday, 2 October 2024
- Kickoff Time: 20:00 BST / 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT
- Referee: Nikola Dabanovic (MNE)
- VAR: Tomasz Kwiatkowski (POL)
Liverpool is a formidable force at home, and they will look to build on their recent performances in both the Premier League and Champions League. Bologna, on the other hand, will aim to prove their worth as they face English opposition for the first time in their history.
The Reds’ European campaign got off to a fantastic start with a 3-1 victory over AC Milan at the San Siro. The Reds showed their strength and experience on the big stage, with goals from Ibrahima Konaté and Mohamed Salah leading the charge.
Their form domestically has also been remarkable, with a 2-1 win over Wolves and a dominant 5-1 victory against West Ham recently.
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Although they suffered a rare defeat against Nottingham Forest, Liverpool’s overall performances under new manager Arne Slot have been nothing short of impressive.
Slot has quickly instilled his philosophy, and Liverpool’s fluid, attacking football has been a joy to watch. They currently sit at the top of the Premier League, exuding confidence and playing with purpose.
Bologna’s journey to the Champions League has been one for the history books. After finishing fifth in Serie A last season, they secured their first European Cup appearance since 1964.
Their opening game ended in a goalless draw against Shakhtar Donetsk, but they now face the daunting task of visiting Anfield, one of the most intimidating venues in world football.
Despite being newcomers to the European competition, Bologna has been difficult to beat this season. They’ve only lost one of their seven matches across all competitions, but they’ve struggled to find victories, with five of those games ending in draws.
Their defensive record has been mixed, with minimal clean sheets, which will be concerning as they prepare to face Liverpool’s potent attack.
Predicted Lineups: Liverpool vs Bologna
Both sides will be missing key players, but The Reds’ depth in their squad gives them an edge. Bologna will have to cope without midfielder Lewis Ferguson and Tommaso Pobega, with doubts also surrounding Oussama El Azzouzi.
For Liverpool, Darwin Nunez should return to the lineup after recovering from illness, but Diogo Jota and Harvey Elliott remain unavailable.
Liverpool Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Alisson
- Defenders: Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Tsimikas
- Midfielders: Gravenberch, Mac Allister
- Attackers: Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz
- Forward: Gakpo
Bologna Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Skorupski
- Defenders: Posch, Beukema, Lucumi, Lykogiannis
- Midfielders: Aebischer, Freuler, Urbanski
- Attackers: Orsolini, Castro, Ndoye
Key Players to Watch
Liverpool: Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah has been The Reds’ talisman this season, leading from the front and providing goals and assists in crucial moments. He’s a constant threat to opposition defenses, and his movement off the ball will be key in unlocking Bologna’s backline.
Bologna: Riccardo Orsolini
For Bologna, Riccardo Orsolini has been one of their standout players. His pace and creativity on the wings will be crucial if they are to exploit any weaknesses in Liverpool’s defense. Orsolini has the ability to make a difference, but he will need to be at his very best against the high-pressing Liverpool side.
Predictions: Liverpool vs Bologna
Liverpool heads into this match full of confidence after their recent run of form. With the attacking prowess of Salah, Diaz, and Gakpo, it’s hard to see Bologna keeping them at bay for 90 minutes.
Bologna has been defensively solid, but their lack of clean sheets could spell trouble against a team that thrives on scoring goals.
Bologna’s strength this season has been their ability to hold strong against pressure, but against a Liverpool side in red-hot form, they will need more than just a good defense. The Reds fluid attack, combined with their ability to dominate possession, makes them the clear favorites in this clash.
jambobet Prediction: Liverpool 3-1 Bologna
