Liverpool FC
Liverpool has struggled in Europe since reaching the Champions League final in 2022. Last season, they suffered their second consecutive last-16 elimination despite strong domestic performances in the Premier League. The Reds finished first in the UCL league phase last season with seven wins from eight matches. However, Paris Saint-Germain knocked them out in the last 16 on penalties. This season, UCL League Phase bookies have positioned the Reds among the top favorites to secure automatic qualifications once again.
Arne Slot’s side has signaled intent this season with the high-profile additions of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, and Alexander Isak. With greater attacking creativity, the Reds will look to mount a serious push for European success. Domestically, Liverpool’s perfect record has come with narrow margins, as late goals have decided all four league victories. Their most recent win was sealed by a 95th-minute penalty from Mohamed Salah against Burnley.
Only Stefan Bajcetic is out due to a hamstring injury, but he is far from being a starting player.
Atlético de Madrid
Last season, Atletico Madrid reached the Champions League last 16 after finishing fifth in the league phase. They would then go on to lose to rivals Real Madrid on penalties in controversial circumstances. That outcome marked their second failure in three seasons to reach the quarter-finals.
Domestically, Los Colchoneros finished third in La Liga despite a poor start to their season. Simeone’s are repeating this same trend once again, with their only win so far coming against Villareal in their last league match. Atletico will look to build on that 2:0 victory by securing another win away at Anfield.
Baena joins Almada on the sidelines after muscle discomfort. Giménez also remains unavailable for Atlético Madrid.
