Liverpool return to action in the Champions League tonight - and the opponent couldn’t come much more difficult.
The Reds welcome Real Madrid to Anfield in the last-16 first leg as the two European heavyweights renew their rivalary.
The pair meet for a third time in five seasons, with Jurgen Klopp’s side falling short on each occasions. Liverpool lost the 2018 final to Madrid in Kyiv before being knocked out in the quarter-finals in 2021. And last campaign, the Reds suffered a 1-0 loss to Los Blancos in the final Paris.
As Champions League games go, things don’t get much bigger with the two clubs winning the competitions a combined 20 times.
Liverpool head into the first leg on the back of a 2-0 victory over Newcastle United. Having stuttered throughout the season, the Reds have started to pick up, having also defeated Everton by the same scoreline.
Klopp’s side are hopeful Darwin Nunez can feature against Madrid, having suffered a shoulder injury against Newcastle.
Liverpool also have Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino pushing for starts after appearing off the bench in the past two games following respective calf injuries.
With all that in mind, here’s the Liverpool team we expect to face Real.
1. Jurgen Klopp runs his eye over the squad ahead of their Champions League round of 16 match against Real Madrid.
Liverpool predicted starting line-up vs Real Madrid Photo: John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
2. GK - Alisson Becker
The Brazilian was top-class against Newcastle and similar performance may be required. Photo: John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
3. RB - Trent Alexander-Arnold
The England international will be cautious about the potency of Madrid on the counter - but will still be expected to contributed on the attack, having assisted the opener against Newcastle. Photo: Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
4. CB - Joe Gomez
Established himself in the line-up in the absence of Konate. He’ll be expecting a busy evening. Photo: Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images