On Wednesday, Liverpool will face Atlético Madrid in their first match of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League group stage at Anfield. This matchup presents an interesting betting opportunity with attractive odds.
Match Preview
Liverpool enters this season as one of the favorites. The team has been in the group stage for eight straight seasons, reaching the final three times. Last year, they topped their group but were knocked out in the round of 16 after a penalty shootout loss to PSG.
Anfield is a stronghold for Liverpool, with a record of 7 wins in their last 9 Champions League home games. The team relies on pressing and quick wing play, with Salah and Wirtz playing crucial roles. Despite some player issues, they maintain a high tempo that challenges opponents.
Under Diego Simeone, Atlético Madrid is making their 13th consecutive appearance in the Champions League. Last season, they finished sixth in their group and lost to Real Madrid in the round of 16. While they have a solid home record, Atlético’s performance away from home has been lacking.
In their last 14 away matches in the competition, Atlético has only achieved 4 wins and faced 8 losses. Even in La Liga, gaining points on the road has proven difficult. Simeone’s strategy focuses on solid defense and counter-attacks, but this often falters against strong teams like Liverpool.
Probable Line-ups
- Liverpool: Alisson, Kerkez, Konaté, van Dijk, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Gakpo, Gravenberch, Salah, Wirtz, Ekitike
- Atlético Madrid: Oblak, Gantzko, Le Normand, Lenglet, Cardoso, Barrios, Almada, Llorente, Simeone, Álvarez, Sørloth
Match Facts and Head-to-Head
- Liverpool has not drawn in their last 21 Champions League matches.
- Atlético has won only 4 of their past 14 away games in the Champions League.
- In the 2021/22 season, Liverpool defeated Atlético twice in the group stage (3-2 and 2-0).
Prediction
Both teams are accustomed to tough European matches, but Liverpool has a significant advantage at home and offers a more adaptable attack. Atlético often struggles on the road against high-caliber teams. Based on these factors, a Liverpool win is anticipated, with odds of 1.62.