Liverpool vs Atlético Madrid prediction: team news, lineups, expert analysis
In the 1st round of the Champions League league phase on September 9, 2026, Liverpool will face Atlético Madrid. The visitors will certainly not give up victory without a fight.
Liverpool vs Atlético team news and expert analysis
The Anfield giants became champions two seasons ago, Arne Slot's first in England. However, Slot was sacked in the summer after Liverpool dropped to fifth place in the Premier League and endured disappointing results in the other competitions. His replacement, Iraola, began with two draws — 2-2 away to Newcastle and 2-2 at home against Nottingham Forest. Liverpool finally managed to beat Ipswich.
The ambitious Madrid club slipped to fourth place in La Liga in 2025/2026 and lost the Copa del Rey final to Real Sociedad. This time, despite a draw with Villarreal while down to ten men, they managed to beat Málaga and Sevilla at the start of the campaign. However, they suddenly collapsed in the latest round against Athletic Club, suffering a 0-3 defeat!
The English side are scoring two goals per game on average while conceding 1.33. The Spaniards are also involved in entertaining matches, averaging 1.75 goals scored and 1.5 conceded per game.
Head to Head matches: Liverpool vs Atlético Madrid
In their three most recent encounters, in 2021 and 2025, only Van Dijk and his teammates managed to win.
The hosts are considered fairly clear favourites. However, their opponents are no pushovers, so we are backing both teams to score (odds – 1.60).
Liverpool vs Atlético Madrid: key statistics and trends
- Liverpool have drawn twice in their first three matches
- 67% of Liverpool's matches have seen both teams score, with an average total of 3.33 goals per game
- Atlético have won two of their four matches
- 50% of Atlético Madrid's matches have seen both teams score, with an average total of 3.25 goals per game
Liverpool vs Atlético Madrid: Possible starting lineups
Liverpool play in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (possible lineup): Alisson - Kerkez, Van Dijk, Jaque, Frimpong - Mac Allister, Szoboszlai - Wirtz, Muñoz, Barcola - Isak
Atlético Madrid play in a 1-4-3-3 formation (possible lineup): Oblak - Grimaldo, Hancko, Pubill, Llorente - Lookman, Hjulmand, Barrios, Simeone - Baena, Lee Kang-in
Follow the Champions League standings and keep up to date with your team's form before placing a bet on the next match.
