MaplePitch Logo

Liverpool vs Atlético Madrid: Champions League Clash Preview and Lineups

Liverpool kick off their 2026–27 Champions League group stage by hosting Atlético Madrid at Anfield on Wednesday. This marks their sixth meeting this decade, with both clubs familiar foes in European competition.

Last season's opener between these sides also took place at Anfield, where Liverpool struck twice in the first six minutes but needed a late goal from Virgil van Dijk to secure victory after losing their early lead. Now, Liverpool face Atlético again, this time under new management.

New Leadership and Recent Form

Andoni Iraola makes his Champions League debut as Liverpool manager. After a solid start with a 2–0 win over Ipswich Town last Friday, Iraola approaches this match knowing Atlético is a tough opponent. He failed to beat Atlético in four tries as Rayo Vallecano's boss.

Atlético Madrid have had a rocky start to the season. The drama around Julián Álvarez’s transfer saga has unsettled the squad, who then suffered a 3–0 loss to Athletic Club at the weekend. Despite current struggles, Diego Simeone’s team remains a strong European contender, reaching the semifinals last season.

Match Prediction and Historical Context

Anfield has long been a fortress for Liverpool. They have never lost their opening Champions League home game, winning ten and drawing two out of twelve past matches. The last three openers all finished 3–2, hinting at an exciting encounter ahead.

  • Liverpool's recent Premier League scoring: Two goals in each of their first three matches this season.
  • Atlético's La Liga form: Scored two or more goals in three of four games.
  • Head-to-head this decade: Five Champions League meetings; Atlético won the first two including a 3–2 win at Anfield in 2020, but Liverpool have taken the last three.

The clash promises goals and intensity. Bradley Barcola could exploit Atlético’s defense alongside Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo. Florian Wirtz might also impact the game with his creativity. Atlético’s experience under floodlights at Anfield and their attacking threat will test Liverpool’s defense, but home advantage and quality may tip the balance.

Score prediction: Liverpool 3–2 Atlético Madrid

Expected Lineups

Liverpool (4-2-3-1):

  • Goalkeeper: Alisson
  • Defenders: Ronald Araújo, Jacquet, Virgil van Dijk, Kerkez
  • Midfielders: Szoboszlai, Mac Allister
  • Attacking Midfielders/Wingers: Cody Gakpo, Florian Wirtz, Bradley Barcola
  • Forward: Alexander Isak

Bradley Barcola looks set to make his first start after impressing off the bench. Gakpo may shift wide to accommodate him. Isak aims to continue his scoring streak. Ronald Araújo retains his right-back spot after a strong showing. Injuries rule out Wataru Endō, Federico Chiesa, Joe Gomez, Hugo Ekitiké, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni.

Atlético Madrid (4-4-2):

  • Goalkeeper: Jan Oblak
  • Defenders: Llorente, Pubill, Cristian Romero, Grimaldo
  • Midfielders: Simeone, Barrios, Hjulmand, Lookman
  • Forwards: Julián Álvarez, Baena

Julián Álvarez may return to the starting lineup after his summer transfer saga. Alexander Sørloth is out injured, and Arnau Ortiz is suspended. Jonathan David might make his club debut from the bench. Cristian Romero could start at center back, replacing Dávid Hancko.

Match Details

  • Location: Liverpool, England
  • Stadium: Anfield
  • Date: Wednesday, September 9
  • Kickoff Time: 8 p.m. BST / 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT
  • Referee: Davide Massa (Italy)
  • VAR: Marco Di Bello (Italy)

Broadcast Information

  • United States: Paramount+, TUDN USA, UniMás, TUDN.com, Univision NOW, TUDN App, ViX
  • Canada: DAZN Canada, fuboTV Canada
  • Mexico: Fox One, Fox+
  • United Kingdom: TNT Sports 1, TNT Sports Ultimate, HBO Max

Related News