Team News and Predicted Lineup as Liverpool Face Real Madrid: Latest on Trent Alexander-Arnold and More | OneFootball

Liverpool vs Real Madrid: Champions League Clash at Anfield

Liverpool prepare for a monumental UEFA Champions League encounter with Real Madrid on Wednesday evening, as Arne Slot’s side look to cement their dominance in Europe against the reigning champions. Despite several injuries to key players, the Reds remain determined to secure victory at Anfield.

Injury Concerns Loom Over Liverpool

The fitness of Trent Alexander-Arnold has been a central talking point leading up to this clash. The right-back suffered a hamstring injury during Liverpool’s victory over Aston Villa and subsequently missed the international break. Manager Arne Slot had hinted at a potential return, saying Alexander-Arnold could be fit “in between” the meetings with Real Madrid and Manchester City. Encouragingly for Liverpool fans, the defender trained with the squad on Tuesday, raising hopes of his availability.

Photo: IMAGO

However, Liverpool face further injury woes, with Alisson Becker, Diogo Jota, Federico Chiesa, and Kostas Tsimikas all sidelined. Harvey Elliott has returned to fitness and made the bench during the recent 3-2 victory over Southampton, giving Slot additional options in midfield.

Alexis Mac Allister and Luis Diaz, both of whom started on the bench against Southampton, are expected to return to the starting XI. Their creativity and energy will be crucial in breaking down a resilient Real Madrid defence.

Tactical Adjustments Against the Spanish Giants

Liverpool are likely to deploy a slightly adjusted lineup to counter Real Madrid’s attacking threat. In Alisson’s absence, Caoimhin Kelleher will take his place between the sticks, supported by a backline that could include Conor Bradley, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, and Andy Robertson.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s midfield options are bolstered by the return of Elliott, but the likely starters are Ryan Gravenberch and Mac Allister. Their ability to control the tempo will be critical in a match where possession could dictate the outcome. Upfront, the usual suspects – Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, Luis Diaz, and Darwin Núñez – will shoulder the attacking responsibilities.

Liverpool’s predicted XI: Kelleher; Bradley, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz; Núñez.

Anfield Advantage and Recent Form

Anfield remains a fortress for Liverpool in European competitions. The crowd’s electrifying presence often plays a pivotal role in unsettling opponents, and Real Madrid will undoubtedly be aware of the challenge. Liverpool have been in excellent form this season, topping their Champions League group and maintaining a strong domestic performance under Slot’s guidance.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, arrive with their own pedigree as reigning champions. Their squad depth and experience in high-pressure situations make them formidable opponents, but they too have vulnerabilities that Liverpool can exploit. Expect an intense battle for control in midfield and plenty of individual duels on the wings.

Key Storylines to Watch

This match offers a stage for some intriguing narratives. Salah remains Liverpool’s talisman, and his ability to deliver in big games will once again be tested. Alexander-Arnold’s potential return could significantly enhance Liverpool’s attacking options, particularly with his pinpoint crossing and creative vision.

For Real Madrid, players like Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham pose a constant threat, capable of turning matches in an instant. Liverpool’s defensive line, anchored by Van Dijk, will need to be at its sharpest to contain the Spanish side’s dynamic forward play.

Time and Venue Details:

Kickoff: 8pm GMT, Wednesday 27 November 2024 Venue: Anfield TV Coverage: TNT Sports

This is a classic European encounter in the making. With injuries on both sides and high stakes, Liverpool versus Real Madrid promises to deliver drama, excitement, and moments of brilliance.