Anfield will roar again on Tuesday night as Liverpool hosts Real Madrid in the UCL league phase. It’s another big chapter in a rivalry that has defined European football over the last decade. 

Arne Slot’s men got a much-needed boost at the weekend, beating Aston Villa 2-0 to end a poor domestic run. Mohamed Salah scored his 250th goal for the Reds, while Ryan Gravenberch added the second to seal an important win. It was only Liverpool’s second victory in eight games across all competitions, but it came at the perfect time. 

Liverpool’s last Champions League game was a statement, a 5-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt. That result pushed them into the top ten of the league-phase table, just outside the top eight spots for automatic qualification. They have now won 15 straight home games in European group-stage or league-phase matches, making Anfield a fortress once again.

Their history against Real Madrid, however, has not been kind. Before last season’s 2-0 win at Anfield, Liverpool had lost seven of their previous eight meetings against Los Blancos. But now, under new management, the Reds are looking to prove they can compete again with Europe’s best. 

On the other side, Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid look unstoppable. The Spanish giants have won 13 of their 14 games this season in all competitions. They’ve already beaten Marseille, Kairat, and Juventus in Europe, and they lead La Liga after a 4-0 win over Valencia, just days after their thrilling El Clásico victory over Barcelona. 

Real Madrid’s only defeat came in a wild 5-2 loss to Atletico, but Alonso’s men have responded in style. They may sit fifth in the Champions League table due to goal difference, but no one doubts their quality. They’ve been dominant, especially with Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr., and Kylian Mbappe leading the attack. 

🔹 Mohamed Salah: The star man and record-breaker; always delivers on big European nights. 

🔹 Ryan Gravenberch: Back from injury and already showing his control in midfield. 

🔹 Jude Bellingham: Madrid’s heart; leads attacks, scores goals, and sets the tone. 

🔹 Kylian Mbappe: Quick, lethal, and confident, Liverpool’s defense will have their hands full. 

💵 Liverpool to win: 2.60 
💵 Draw: 3.96 
💵 Real Madrid to win: 2.61 
💵 Over 2.5 Goals: 1.70 
💵 Salah Anytime Goalscorer: 2.30 
💵 Mbappe Anytime Goalscorer: 2.10 

Both teams love attacking football, and both have the quality to score multiple goals. Anfield will be loud and emotional, but Real Madrid’s experience and form could give them a small edge. Expect a high-intensity game full of chances.