Liverpool vs Atlético Madrid: Champions League Opener Preview and Lineups
Liverpool vs Atlético Madrid: Champions League Opener
Liverpool will kick off their 2026–27 Champions League group stage by hosting Atlético Madrid at Anfield on Wednesday. This meeting marks the sixth time these two have faced each other in this decade.
Last season, the teams also began their campaign with a clash at Anfield, where Liverpool took an early lead with two goals inside six minutes. Despite that advantage slipping away, Virgil van Dijk’s late goal secured a dramatic victory for the hosts.
This time, Liverpool step onto the European stage under new management. Andoni Iraola will oversee his first Champions League match as Liverpool manager. After guiding Liverpool to a 2–0 league win over Ipswich Town last Friday, Iraola may feel less pressure against Atlético, whom he never defeated during his tenure at Rayo Vallecano.
On the other side, Atlético Madrid's start to the season has been rocky. The transfer saga surrounding Julián Álvarez unsettled the team, and they suffered a 3–0 defeat against Athletic Club at the weekend. Despite that, Diego Simeone’s squad remains a strong European contender, proven by their run to the semifinals last term.
Score Prediction: Liverpool 3–2 Atlético Madrid
The early days of Iraola’s reign have been turbulent, promising another intense match when Atlético arrive. Liverpool’s defense has shown vulnerability but their attack, featuring Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo, has been impressive. Bradley Barcola might get his first start, providing support alongside these in-form players. Florian Wirtz’s creativity could also trouble Atlético’s backline.
Atlético have experience managing hostile environments like Anfield and possess sharp attackers who can challenge Liverpool’s defense. Still, the home side's superior quality might tip the balance in their favor during critical moments.
Notably, Liverpool have never lost their opening Champions League match at home. In 12 such games, they have won 10 and drawn two, with the last three all finishing 3–2. Liverpool have netted two goals in each of their three Premier League fixtures this season, while Atlético have scored two or more in three of their four La Liga games.
Head-to-head in this decade's Champions League: Atlético won the first two encounters, including a memorable 3–2 win at Anfield in 2020, but Liverpool took the last three meetings.
Expected Starting Lineups
- Liverpool (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Ronald Araújo, Jacquet, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister; Gakpo, Wirtz, Barcola; Isak
- Atlético Madrid (4-4-2): Oblak; Llorente, Pubill, Cristian Romero, Grimaldo; Simeone, Barrios, Hjulmand, Lookman; Julián Álvarez, Baena
Barcola is expected to make his first start after showing readiness following his debut appearance. Gakpo might shift to the right wing to accommodate him. Isak aims to extend his scoring streak to three consecutive Liverpool games, while Ronald Araújo keeps his spot at right back after a strong performance.
Injuries rule out Wataru Endō, Federico Chiesa, Joe Gomez, Hugo Ekitiké, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni for Liverpool. Atlético could recall Julián Álvarez despite his summer transfer request to Barcelona, especially with Alexander Sørloth injured. Jonathan David may make his club debut off the bench. Cristian Romero is set for his first start at center back, replacing Dávid Hancko. Arnau Ortiz misses out due to suspension.
Match Details
- Location: Liverpool, England
- Stadium: Anfield
- Date: Wednesday, September 9
- Kickoff Time: 8 p.m. BST / 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT
- Referee: Davide Massa (Italy)
- VAR: Marco Di Bello (Italy)
Broadcast Information
- United States: Paramount+, TUDN USA, UniMás, TUDN.com, Univision NOW, TUDN App, ViX
- Canada: DAZN Canada, fuboTV Canada
- Mexico: Fox One, Fox+
- United Kingdom: TNT Sports 1, TNT Sports Ultimate, HBO Max
