Anfield is bracing itself for another electric European night as Liverpool face Atlético Madrid on September 17, marking their first test in the new Champions League league-phase format. This fixture revives a rivalry that has produced high drama over the years—none more memorable than Atlético’s dramatic extra-time win in 2020, which eliminated the then-defending champions.
Liverpool Riding High After Title Triumph
Liverpool enter this campaign with momentum and ambition under Arne Slot, who guided the club to its 20th English league title in his debut season. Slot has reshaped the Reds’ identity with a mix of pressing intensity and tactical flexibility, while also refreshing the squad through key transfers. Florian Wirtz brings creativity to midfield, and the club-record signing of Alexander Isak promises long-term firepower, though he may not start this match due to fitness concerns.
Even without him, Liverpool’s attack looks formidable with Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo spearheading the front line. Their midfield, bolstered by Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister, has provided balance, dynamism, and control in early-season performances. Defensively, Ibrahima Konaté’s return alongside Virgil van Dijk offers steel at the back, even as Curtis Jones remains unavailable and Jeremie Frimpong faces a race for fitness. Slot’s blueprint has already delivered big wins, including a narrow but convincing 1-0 victory over Arsenal, a sign of their growing maturity.
Atlético’s Rocky Start Under Simeone
For Diego Simeone and Atlético Madrid, the mood is far less buoyant. The Colchoneros have endured a poor opening to their La Liga season, collecting only two points from their first three games. Injuries have played their part: summer signing Álex Baena is out following surgery, while defensive leader José Giménez remains sidelined.
Nevertheless, Simeone’s philosophy remains unchanged—compact defensive lines, tactical discipline, and opportunistic counter-attacks. Veterans Marcos Llorente and Álvaro Morata, both of whom tormented Liverpool in 2020, will again be central figures. Creativity may rest on Thiago Almada’s shoulders, while Alexander Sørloth adds a physical outlet up front. Yet cracks have begun to show in their resilience, with lapses at the back costing crucial points early in the campaign.
Tactical Battle and Key Dynamics
This encounter sets up as a clash of contrasting philosophies. Liverpool will press aggressively, aiming to stretch Atlético’s defense with quick transitions and Salah’s pace in behind. In contrast, Simeone’s men will likely bide their time, soaking up pressure before striking on the counter or from set pieces. The midfield duel—Wirtz and Szoboszlai’s creativity versus Martín Zubimendi-style discipline from Atlético—could determine the rhythm of the game.
Anfield’s atmosphere will be another factor. Known for fueling Liverpool’s greatest European comebacks, the crowd could tilt the balance in favor of Slot’s men if the hosts dominate early phases.
Prediction: Reds to Prevail at Home
While Atlético have the pedigree to frustrate anyone in Europe, Liverpool’s form, depth, and attacking sharpness give them the edge. A tense opening seems likely, but the Reds’ quality should eventually tell. Expect Salah and Wirtz to be central to the breakthrough, while Atlético may find a consolation through a set-piece or counter.
Prediction: Liverpool 3–1 Atlético Madrid
