Liverpool is preparing for one of the most demanding matches of the season as it hosts Real Madrid at Anfield in the Champions League group stage. The Tuesday evening clash will serve as an important test of form and resilience for the home side.
Coach Arne Slot emphasized that his team will face a fully fit opponent. Real Madrid enters the match without major injuries and continues to show excellent form both in the domestic league and on the European stage. The Spanish powerhouse has won all three of its matches in the competition and leads La Liga with ten victories from eleven games.
Real relies on an attacking trio of Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham. Captain Federico Valverde has also maintained a high level of performance, recently excelling in a 4–0 win over Valencia. The defense may be without Antonio Rüdiger, and the participation of David Alaba remains uncertain.
Liverpool faces its own lineup issues. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker, defender Jeremie Frimpong, and forward Alexander Isak will be unavailable. Nevertheless, Slot intends to build on the weekend league victory and strengthen the team’s confidence. Florian Wirtz is expected to return to the starting lineup, while Curtis Jones, recently back in training, could feature from the bench.
Supporters anticipate the return of Trent Alexander-Arnold to the starting eleven, but the coach is likely to manage his minutes carefully following a recent injury. On the left side of defense, young Miloš Kerkez could be preferred to the experienced Andy Robertson.
Under Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid continues its winning streak and demonstrates the strength of a modernized, star-filled squad. Liverpool, however, traditionally responds well against strong opponents and will aim to prove it belongs among Europe’s elite.
Interestingly, Liverpool’s last twenty-nine group-stage matches in European competitions have not ended in a draw. An open contest with goals on both sides can therefore be expected.
The match will be officiated by Romanian referee István Kovács, assisted by Mihai Marica and Ferencz Tunyogi. The VAR will be managed by German official Bastian Dankert.
The encounter promises an exciting spectacle between two of Europe’s most successful clubs. Liverpool will rely on the energy of Anfield and its supporters, while Real Madrid aims to confirm its dominance in this season’s Champions League.
