Liverpool will host Real Madrid at Anfield in a high-stakes UEFA Champions League clash on Wednesday, November 28, aiming to secure automatic qualification from the tournament.
The match promises to be a crucial encounter as the Reds will look to leapfrog to the top of the group standings with a win, while the Spanish giants aim to revive their faltering continental campaign.

Liverpool have been in imperious form this season under new manager Arne Slot, leading the Premier League and sitting in third place in the Champions League group, albeit with a game in hand. However, uncertainties around the futures of key players like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk will certainly add headaches for the manager.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s struggles in Europe have been uncharacteristic, with Carlo Ancelotti's men sitting in 21st place after two surprising losses to Lille and AC Milan.
Despite their contrasting fortunes this season, the two clubs bring an intense rivalry, with Real Madrid dominating their recent encounters. The Spanish side have won seven of their last eight matches against Liverpool, including the 2022 final, a trend the Reds will be desperate to reverse.
Liverpool face several injury concerns heading into the clash, with key players sidelined. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker remains unavailable, so Caoimhin Kelleher will continue to deputise. Diogo Jota and Kostas Tsimikas are also ruled out, the latter sustaining an ankle injury during training.
Federico Chiesa is nearing full fitness, while Trent Alexander-Arnold, absent since early November, has returned to training and is expected to make the matchday squad. Harvey Elliott, who was unused in the last fixture, may also play a role.
Real Madrid, however, are grappling with more significant injuries. Star forward Vinicius Junior has been sidelined with a hamstring injury, likely ruling him out for the remainder of 2024. Rodrygo remains doubtful, opening the door for options like Dani Ceballos, Arda Guler, or Endrick in attack.
Defensive depth has been severely affected with Eder Militao, David Alaba, and Aurelien Tchouameni all unavailable, forcing Carlo Ancelotti to rely on Raul Asencio at centre-back. At right-back, long-term absentee Dani Carvajal is joined by Lucas Vazquez, leaving Federico Valverde to likely reprise his defensive role after starting in that position against Leganes.
Liverpool come into this match in high spirits after a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory against Southampton in the Premier League. Arne Slot has seamlessly transitioned into his role as manager, steering the team to 16 wins in 18 matches this season. With Salah leading the attack and new additions like Alexis Mac Allister excelling, the Reds will look to dominate proceedings at Anfield.
Real Madrid have been unconvincing in the Champions League, with their two losses jeopardising their qualification hopes. Injuries to key players, including Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo, leave the spotlight firmly on Kylian Mbappé. The Frenchman, who finally scored at the weekend, must step up in attack if Madrid are to leave Anfield with a result.
Kelleher; Bradley, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jones, Díaz; Núñez
Courtois; Valverde, Asensio, Rüdiger, Mendy; Modric, Camavinga, Bellingham; Díaz, Mbappé, Ceballos
Liverpool’s dominance at home, combined with their current form, makes them favourites for this clash. However, Real Madrid’s pedigree in European competitions cannot be underestimated. A hard-fought draw seems the likeliest outcome, with both teams likely to find the net.
Prediction: Liverpool 2-2 Real Madrid