Liverpool host Real Madrid at Anfield on Wednesday night in a marquee Champions League Matchday 5 clash. With a combined 21 European Cups between the two clubs, this fixture carries immense historical significance. Though not a final, this encounter still promises high stakes as Liverpool aim to continue their perfect record in the group stage, while Madrid look to climb out of mid-table mediocrity.
1. Current State of Play
Liverpool enter the match as the only team in the competition to win all four of their opening matches, placing them atop the Champions League table. The Reds enjoy a three-point cushion over eighth place, a vital position to avoid the extra knockout round in the league format.
Real Madrid, by contrast, are struggling. Los Blancos are 18th in the standings, with two wins and two losses, and sit three points behind eighth-placed Aston Villa. A win at Anfield would not only improve their position but also revive their season.
2. Key Absentees for Liverpool
Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirmed that several key players are unavailable. Trent Alexander-Arnold, while back in training, will not start, leaving the right-back slot open for Conor Bradley or Joe Gomez. Alisson Becker, Diogo Jota, and Kostas Tsimikas are also ruled out. Harvey Elliott, though back in the squad, is not yet match-fit to start.
These absences mean Caoimhin Kelleher will start in goal, with the backline likely to feature Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, Andrew Robertson, and Bradley or Gomez. Mo Salah will spearhead the attack, supported by Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo, with Darwin Núñez potentially rotating in.
3. Real Madrid’s Mixed Form and Injury Crisis
Real Madrid haven’t found their best form this season but have shown signs of improvement, winning their last two matches against Osasuna and Leganés without conceding. Domestically, they are four points behind league leaders Barcelona with a game in hand.
However, injuries are a major concern for Carlo Ancelotti’s side. Star winger Vinícius Júnior is out, alongside David Alaba, Aurelien Tchouameni, Rodrygo, Dani Carvajal, and Eder Militao. Madrid’s makeshift defense, featuring Federico Valverde and Antonio Rudiger, will need to be at its best to withstand Liverpool’s relentless attack.
4. Historical Context
This is the eighth meeting between the two sides in the last decade. Liverpool and Madrid have faced off in three European finals, with the Reds winning in 1981 and Madrid claiming victories in 2018 and 2022.
The Reds recent Champions League campaigns have often ended at the hands of Madrid clubs, losing to Atletico Madrid in 2020 and Real Madrid in 2018, 2021, 2022, and 2023.
5. Predicted Starting XIs
Liverpool:
Kelleher; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Salah, Gakpo, Diaz
Real Madrid:
Courtois; Vazquez, Rudiger, Asencio, Mendy; Camavinga, Valverde, Bellingham; Guler, Brahim Diaz, Mbappe
Madrid’s lineup reflects their injury struggles, with Lucas Vazquez likely to start at right-back and Brahim Diaz expected to replace Vinícius Júnior in the attack.
6. Salah’s Record and Influence
Mohamed Salah has been in scintillating form, scoring 12 goals this season, including one in the Champions League group stage. Salah has tallied 49 Champions League goals in his career, 43 of them with Liverpool. His ability to lead the attack will be critical against Madrid’s makeshift defense. Salah has historically been a decisive figure for Liverpool in high-stakes matches, and Wednesday will be no exception.
7. Tactical Battle to Watch
With both teams missing key players, tactical adjustments will be pivotal. Liverpool’s high press and quick transitions under Slot’s management have been their hallmark, while Real Madrid rely on the creative brilliance of Jude Bellingham in midfield. The absence of Vinícius Júnior reduces Madrid’s threat on the flanks, forcing them to focus more on central combinations.
Liverpool’s ability to exploit Madrid’s defensive gaps, particularly through Salah and Diaz, could determine the outcome. Meanwhile, Madrid’s midfield trio of Bellingham, Valverde, and Eduardo Camavinga will look to dominate possession and disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm.
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8. Referee and Disciplinary Watch
French referee Francois Letexier will officiate the game. He has previously overseen Liverpool matches, including their Europa League win over Atalanta last season and the Euro 2024 final between England and Spain. Letexier’s style allows for a flowing game, which could benefit Liverpool’s fast-paced approach.
Konate and Alexis Mac Allister need to avoid yellow cards to ensure their availability for the final group-stage match against Girona.
9. Key Players to Watch
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): With his ability to deliver in crucial games, Salah will be Liverpool’s main attacking threat.
- Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid): The English midfielder has been a revelation this season, and his creativity will be essential in Madrid’s buildup play.
- Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool): The young midfielder has shown flashes of brilliance and could play a decisive role in breaking Madrid’s lines.
10. Match Prediction
Liverpool enter this game as favorites, given their form and Madrid’s injury woes. Anfield’s atmosphere is likely to add to Madrid’s challenges, making it difficult for Los Blancos to secure a result.
Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Real Madrid
This scoreline reflects Liverpool’s attacking dominance while acknowledging Madrid’s resilience and ability to capitalize on moments of quality. With Salah, Diaz, and Gakpo leading the charge, Liverpool should edge this high-stakes encounter.
