Two of Europe’s biggest football clubs, Liverpool and Real Madrid, are set to renew their fierce rivalry in a mouth-watering Champions League clash at Anfield on Tuesday night. Both sides are eager to make a statement in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the league phase.
Liverpool come into this tie rejuvenated after a crucial 2-0 Premier League victory over Aston Villa, which ended their disappointing domestic run. Goals from Mohamed Salah—his 250th for the club—and Ryan Gravenberch secured three vital points and restored belief in Arne Slot’s men. The Reds have been formidable at home in Europe, boasting 15 straight wins in group or league-phase matches at Anfield.
Despite recent struggles, Liverpool’s European pedigree remains strong. Their emphatic 5-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt in the previous round lifted them back into the top ten of the standings, just outside automatic qualification on goal difference. Fans will be hopeful that the home advantage and renewed confidence will inspire another big performance against the Spanish giants.
Real Madrid, managed by former Liverpool hero Xabi Alonso, travel to Merseyside in scintillating form. Los Blancos have won 13 of their last 14 matches this season, their only setback being a heavy defeat to Atletico Madrid. In the Champions League, they’ve maintained a perfect record with victories over Marseille, Kairat, and Juventus. Fresh from a 4-0 demolition of Valencia, Alonso’s side look dangerous and full of attacking flair led by Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr, and Kylian Mbappe.
Liverpool will be without Alisson Becker, Alexander Isak, Jeremie Frimpong, and Giovanni Leoni due to injuries, though Curtis Jones may return. Real Madrid, on the other hand, face defensive issues, with Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger, and David Alaba all sidelined. Trent Alexander-Arnold could make a return to Anfield in Madrid colours, depending on his fitness.
Kick-off Time: 11:00 PM (Kenyan Time)
Where to Watch: Live on SuperSport TV
Predicted Lineups:
Liverpool: Mamardashvili; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Ekitike
Real Madrid: Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Militao, Huijsen, Carreras; Valverde, Tchouameni; Guler, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr; Mbappe
