Liverpool are heading to RB Leipzig on Wednesday, looking to extend their winning streak to three in the Champions League. The Reds have made a stellar start under their new manager, Arne Slot, winning all but one of their first 11 matches. This includes two Champions League victories, defeating Italian sides AC Milan and Bologna convincingly.
While their success is clear in Europe, Liverpool also continue to dominate domestically. A hard-fought 2-1 victory over Chelsea on Sunday has secured their position at the top of the Premier League, showcasing their versatility and strength across competitions.
RB Leipzig’s Steady Domestic Form Amid European Struggles
In contrast, RB Leipzig's domestic performance has been solid, as they remain unbeaten in the Bundesliga, sitting in second place. However, their Champions League campaign has faltered. Defeats to Atletico Madrid and Juventus have left Marco Rose's squad struggling to keep pace on the European stage, making this clash against Liverpool crucial for their survival in the tournament.
Let’s take a look at what to expect from this exciting fixture in Germany.
Match Details: When and Where?
- Location: Leipzig, Germany
- Stadium: Red Bull Arena
- Date: Wednesday, 23 October
- Kick-off: 20:00 BST / 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT
- Referee: Sandro Scharer (SUI)
- VAR: Fedayi San (SUI)
Head-to-Head Record: RB Leipzig vs Liverpool
- RB Leipzig Wins: 0
- Liverpool Wins: 2
- Draws: 0
- Last Meeting: Liverpool 2-0 RB Leipzig (March 2021, Champions League)
RB Leipzig Team News and Lineup
RB Leipzig face a few key absences for the visit of the six-time Champions League winners. In midfield, they’ll be without Nicolas Seiwald, Xaver Schlager, and Assan Ouedraogo, while Amadou Haidara is doubtful after a knock in their weekend win against Mainz. The wing-back position also sees David Raum out, with summer signing Antonio Nusa stepping in.
However, star forward Lois Openda is expected to be fit despite suffering a minor injury in their recent match. Former Liverpool goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi will start in goal, with Lutsharel Geertruida, who shares history with Slot from their Feyenoord days, expected to feature prominently in the backline.
Liverpool Team News and Lineup
Diogo Jota remains a doubt for Liverpool after picking up an injury against Chelsea. His fitness issues have been frustrating since his move to Anfield, and it’s unlikely he’ll take part in Wednesday’s game. With Alisson sidelined due to a hamstring problem, Caoimhin Kelleher will stand in as the Reds’ goalkeeper for the trip to Germany.
Harvey Elliott, Conor Bradley, and Federico Chiesa are also missing from the squad, but Alexis Mac Allister, who was an injury concern ahead of the Chelsea game, came off the bench on Sunday and could feature again. Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez may be promoted to the starting lineup after being used as substitutes in recent games.
Predicted Liverpool Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Jones, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz; Nunez.
Score Prediction: Can Leipzig Stop Liverpool’s Momentum?
Liverpool’s strong start to the season has raised concerns for Leipzig, who were defeated 2-0 in both previous meetings between the teams during the 2020/21 Champions League season. Despite not always being at their best, Liverpool have consistently secured wins under Slot’s leadership.
Leipzig, on the other hand, have struggled in Europe this season, with defensive lapses exposed by Atletico Madrid and Juventus. Liverpool's high-intensity attack is likely to pose similar challenges for the German side.
That said, Leipzig’s attacking force, led by Benjamin Sesko and Xavi Simons, can test Liverpool’s defense. However, it may not be enough to keep Liverpool from extending their winning run in the Champions League.
Conclusion
As Liverpool continue their dominant form across both domestic and European competitions, RB Leipzig face a tough challenge in trying to halt their momentum. While Leipzig’s attacking prowess may cause problems for Liverpool’s backline, the Reds' overall quality and depth make them favorites to claim victory in this matchup.
Test your Football Knowledge! Visit: https://www.quizzop.com/football-quiz/category
