Liverpool face Bayer Leverkusen in a thrilling Champions League encounter at Anfield. Both teams bring compelling narratives into the match, promising an exciting showdown.
Liverpool Recent Form
Liverpool have started their Champions League campaign with a flawless record, winning all three of their opening games. Domestically, they sit atop the Premier League, showing resilience and consistency under new manager Arne Slot.
Their recent victory over Brighton in the Premier League showcased their determination to stay at the summit, turning a challenging first half into a crucial win.
Bayer Leverkusen Recent Form
Bayer Leverkusen, under the leadership of Xabi Alonso, have also impressed. While they remain unbeaten in their last 11 matches across all competitions, they have been prone to drawing games, as seen in their recent goalless stalemate against Stuttgart in the Bundesliga on Friday.
Their Champions League form includes victories over Feyenoord and AC Milan, but a draw with Brest has slightly marred their otherwise strong start.
Injury and Team News
Liverpool
Liverpool have a few injury concerns. Ibrahima Konate is back in the squad after recovering from an arm injury, but Alisson Becker, Harvey Elliott, Federico Chiesa, and Diogo Jota remain sidelined.
Bayer Leverkusen
Leverkusen face a few key absences, with Nordi Mukiele, Amine Adli, and Jeanuel Belocian all ruled out. Martin Terrier will also miss the trip to England.
Last Liverpool Lineup
Here is how Liverpool lined up in their last match:
Last Bayer Leverkusen Lineup
Leverkusen’s previous lineup was:
Liverpool Player to Watch
Mohamed Salah
Salah continues to be Liverpool’s talisman, with a chance to break records by scoring in six consecutive Champions League home games for an English club.
Bayer Leverkusen Player to Watch
Florian Wirtz
Wirtz is a key player for Leverkusen, aiming to become one of the youngest to score in three consecutive Champions League away matches.
Prediction
A tightly contested match is on the cards, with Liverpool’s perfect start potentially challenged by Leverkusen’s defensive solidity and counter-attacking prowess. A 1-1 draw seems a likely outcome, reflecting the current form and tactical strengths of both sides.
Betting Tips
Tip 1: Both Teams to Score (BTTS)
Given the attacking talent on both sides, both teams scoring is a plausible outcome.
Tip 2: Draw
With Leverkusen’s knack for draws and Liverpool’s fatigue potentially setting in, a draw offers good value.
Tip 3: Salah to Score Anytime
Mohamed Salah’s rich vein of form makes him a strong candidate to find the back of the net.
