The UCL Group B match between Real Madrid and Liverpool will take place at the Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid, Spain on Tuesday, November 4th, 2014 at 11.45am Pacific.
Los Blancos avenged their 4-0 loss at Anfield, and now they will look to please their fans with another win. This would make them grab the 12th consecutive win in all competitions. The Bernabéu will give their best against a Liverpool that comes in the midst of a crisis. Despite this fact, it’s a match nobody should miss.
Real Madrid
Carlo Ancelotti gave his usual press conference ahead of the match and confirmed that Gareth Bale is fit and ready to play. He didn’t assert if the Welshman would start, yet all signs point that he’ll appear in the second half. The Italian stated that Carvajal, Khedira, Illarramendi and Coentrão are out of the squad.
With these sudden injuries, the plan to put out less habitual players won’t be possible. Real will line up with their stellar 11, with Arbeloa coming in for Carvajal. Consequently, they have the same gunpowder that took down Anfield. For our in-depth analysis of the possible lineup, please check here.
Players to watch: Ronaldo, Benzema and Marcelo.
Liverpool
The Reds are sitting on 7th spot in the Premier League. They will receive a first placed Chelsea on Saturday, making this an important week for Rodgers’ men. There’s been speculation that the manager would put out a lineup filled with back up players. While the domestic tournament is important, they’re anything but safe in the UCL.
Brendan should send his best men to battle. The first quarter-hour at Anfield had them dominating Madrid. Going out with a winning mentality will be key, and you can’t be a winner if you bench the best players. Taking advantage of set pieces and Marcelo’s wing could help Liverpool give the surprise at the Bernabéu.
Players to watch: Lallana, Balotelli and Coutinho.
Real Madrid vs Liverpool Prediction
If Liverpool in fact put out the subs, things don’t look bright for them. Real have some important players missing out, but their backbone’s still there to cause trouble. As seen at Anfield, Madrid can dominate the ball and find open spaces. The Reds can profit from the rival’s relaxation, as being over confident could work against them.
Real Madrid 3 – 1 Liverpool
Real Madrid vs Liverpool TV Schedule
The game will be broadcast on Fox Sports 1, several of its affiliates and DirecTV. For your local time please check here.
