European football focuses on Anfield on Wednesday night as Liverpool hosts Atletico Madrid in one of the key matches of Matchday 1 in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League.
The Reds come in strong after winning all four of their opening Premier League matches. Meanwhile, Diego Simeone’s team seeks to build momentum after achieving their first La Liga win of the season.
Liverpool: Late drama, perfect record
Arne Slot’s Liverpool have continued their success from last season, starting their domestic campaign with four wins out of four, placing them at the top of the Premier League. Each win has featured goals in the closing moments, highlighting their determination and ability to win.
Now, their focus shifts to Europe, where the defending champions want to overcome last season’s disappointing last-16 exit against Paris Saint-Germain. Their impressive home record boosts their confidence. Liverpool has won their last 14 UEFA matches at Anfield, scoring at least twice in 13 of those games.
Atletico Madrid: Simeone’s trademark resilience
Atletico Madrid, known for their strong defense under Simeone, has recorded clean sheets in 42% of their Champions League matches with him leading the team, more than any other Spanish club with a single coach.
However, that defensive strength was lacking at the start of their La Liga season, as Los Rojiblancos could not secure a win in their first three matches. Fortunately, the international break came at the right time, allowing them to gain confidence with a 2-0 victory over Villarreal.
Team news: Atletico hit by injuries
Liverpool fans are excited to see £125m signing Alexander Isak make his debut, and Slot has confirmed that the striker will be part of the squad, though it seems unlikely he will start. Alexis Mac Allister is also a doubt after a tough challenge against Burnley, while Curtis Jones remains out.
Atletico faces a serious injury crisis. Julian Alvarez is unavailable, and Johnny Cardoso, Jose Gimenez, Alex Baena, and Thiago Almada are all out as well. Four players had to leave the field during the Villarreal match, but Simeone hopes some will recover in time.\
Liverpool possible starting lineup:
Alisson; Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike.
Atlético Madrid possible starting lineup:
Oblak; Llorente, Le Normand, Lenglet, Ruggeri; Simeone, Barrios, Koke, Gallagher; Griezmann, Sørloth.
