Liverpool fans would’ve hoped their side came out of the international break rejuvenated and ready to right their early season wrongs, but last year’s beaten UEFA Champions League (UCL) finalists limped to a 3-3 draw against Brighton at the weekend, and at one stage trailed in that game 2-0! That was only the second time they’ve conceded 3+ goals in 43 home matches, with their once seemingly impermeable defence now keeping only two clean sheets in their last 13 matches.
Anfield can be a different beast on European nights though, highlighted by the fact the Reds have won 13 of their last 15 home UCL group stage matches (D1, L1). Jürgen Klopp’s men will be looking to leverage that home advantage, as although they face Rangers for the very first time here, they’ve won only one of their last six encounters with Scottish opposition (D4, L1).
Rangers may feel there’s no better time to face Liverpool, despite losing both their group games so far without scoring. The Glasgow side make the trip having won back-to-back domestic matches after scoring first in both, which could be vital considering Liverpool have conceded first in five of their last seven matches at Anfield.
It’s been more than 12 years since the Gers last travelled to England for a UCL adventure, and they’ll hope for better fortunes this time around. Rangers have won only once in England across seven European trips (D2, L4), while failing to score in four of their last five visits, but need to do better as they could find themselves six points adrift in last place if Group A matchday three results go against them.
Players to watch: Liverpool will hope this season’s current club top-scorer Roberto Firmino will guide them to victory, having lost only once when he’s scored in the UCL (W11, D3). While Rangers’ Antonio Čolak will be looking to exploit Liverpool’s vulnerabilities early on after netting the match opener in three of his last four goalscoring outings.
Hot stat: Only two of Liverpool’s last 13 matches have failed to see goals in both halves.
