The Daily Star Ireland
The Champions League is back with a bang as Liverpool host Atlético Madrid at Anfield, in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the opening rounds. Both clubs arrive with contrasting starts to their domestic campaigns but share the same ambition of making deep runs in Europe’s most prestigious competition.
Liverpool Riding High After Strong Start
Liverpool, fresh off their 20th English league title last season, enter this campaign with momentum, even if they fell short in other competitions. The Reds exited the Champions League in the round of 16 against Paris Saint-Germain, were beaten by Newcastle in the EFL Cup final, and crashed out of the FA Cup. Still, Jürgen Slot’s men have rebounded impressively in the new season.
After losing the Community Shield on penalties to Crystal Palace, Liverpool opened their Premier League campaign with three consecutive victories: 4-2 over Bournemouth, 3-2 at Newcastle, and 1-0 against Arsenal. Summer reinforcements have already started to make their mark. Hugo Ekitiké, signed from Frankfurt, has scored twice in the league and added another in the Community Shield. Florian Wirtz, the marquee arrival from Bayer Leverkusen, has shown flashes of his talent but is still settling in.
Liverpool’s attack remains their greatest weapon, led by Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo, both already among the goals and assists. Alexander Isak, who finally arrived after a drawn-out transfer saga with Newcastle, may not be ready to start but will add firepower as the season progresses. Defensively, new signings Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez have bolstered depth after the departures of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Luis Díaz, among others. Injuries to Chiesa and Bajcetic, plus the absence of Baena, leave Liverpool slightly stretched, but their squad looks well-rounded for another title push.
Atlético Madrid Searching for Form
Atlético Madrid, by contrast, enter this clash under pressure. Diego Simeone’s side endured a trophyless 2024/25 season, finishing third in La Liga behind Barcelona and Real Madrid, falling in the Copa del Rey semi-finals, and bowing out of the Champions League to Real Madrid after a dramatic penalty shootout.
The new season has been shaky. Atlético lost their opener to Espanyol (2-1) before drawing with Elche (1-1) and Alavés (1-1). Their inability to turn possession into goals has left them searching for answers. Key man Antoine Griezmann now often plays a reduced role, while Álvarez and Sorho remain the primary attacking threats after strong seasons last year.
Their transfer activity was significant, with arrivals including Baena (Villarreal), Thiago Almada (Botafogo), Ruggeri (Atalanta), and Raspadori (Napoli). At the same time, long-serving players like Azpilicueta, Witsel, Lemar, and Ángel Correa departed. Injuries have complicated matters further: Baena is already sidelined, José María Giménez is doubtful, and Almada is unavailable until the end of the month. Simeone has new tools at his disposal, but the squad is still searching for cohesion.
Key Factors to Watch
The tactical battle will be fascinating. Liverpool’s high-pressing style and relentless attack will test an Atlético side that traditionally prefers to sit deep and strike on the counter. Salah’s duel with Atlético’s full-backs could prove decisive, while Wirtz’s creativity might unlock a defense that has shown early-season vulnerabilities.
For Atlético, keeping compact shape and hitting on transitions will be essential. Álvarez and Sorho will need to capitalize on limited chances, while Koke and De Paul must bring control in midfield against Liverpool’s pressing machine.
Prediction
Anfield has been a fortress for Liverpool in Europe, with their last four home Champions League games producing 16 goals and both teams scoring each time. Atlético’s recent away record in the competition also points to goals at both ends, but current form suggests Liverpool are clear favorites.
The Reds’ attacking depth, early-season confidence, and home advantage should carry them through against an Atlético side still trying to find its rhythm.
Prediction: Liverpool 3 – 1 Atlético Madrid
