Liverpool vs Real Madrid preview: Team news, probable starting XI, stats and where to watch this UEFA Champions League fixture

Two teams with contrasting recent form will face-off in a key Champions League fixture at Anfield on Wednesday (November 5). Reigning EPL champions Liverpool will play host to the formidable Real Madrid outfit in a potential blockbuster clash.

Real Madrid have adopted a much more pragmatic approach this season under their new manager and it has seen a much better balance between attack and defence. On the other hand, Liverpool's defence has been highly vulnerable while their attacking prowess has also seen a dip in recent weeks.

 

Team news

Liverpool

Liverpool will be relieved at breaking their losing streak with a 2-0 win against Aston Villa on Saturday (November 1). Given the streak of losses in the Premier League prior to the fixture and the elimination from the EFL Cup, the Reds desperately needed this win. However, the task only gets tougher as they face a Real Madrid side that has been in top form.

Real Madrid

Xabi Alonso's start as Los Blancos manager has begun in style with 13 wins from 14 games across all competitions. This includes a 2-1 win over arch-rivals Barcelona. Real Madrid are yet to fully adjust to Alonso's gameplay but with such a start to the season, these are ominous signs for their opponents.

Stats

Real Madrid have only won two of their last nine games against English clubs but past history doesn't really matter for a team of their caliber, especially with Alonso packing a punch. Meanwhile, Liverpool beat Los Blancos 2-0 last season at Anfield and Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen side also got a hammering at the venue.

Real Madrid have won all three of their Champions League games and have won their last five games across all competitions. Liverpool, though, have only won one Champions League game this season and have won two of their last five games across all competitions.

 

Probable starting XI

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

 

Where to watch

UEFA Champions League is being telecast on Sony Sports Network and is being streamed on the Sony LIV app.