Liverpool vs Atlético Madrid: Champions League Clash Preview and Lineups

Liverpool kick off their 2026–27 Champions League group stage by welcoming Atlético Madrid to Anfield this Wednesday. These two sides last met on Merseyside during the previous season's opener, where Liverpool scored twice inside six minutes but needed a late goal from Virgil van Dijk to secure a win after surrendering their early lead.

This time, Liverpool face the challenge under new leadership as Andoni Iraola takes charge of his first Champions League game as manager. Following his initial victory with a 2–0 win over Ipswich Town, Iraola may feel more confident facing Atlético, a team he couldn't defeat during his stint at Rayo Vallecano.

Atlético Madrid have had a rocky start to their season, marred by the Julián Alvarez transfer saga and a heavy 3–0 loss to Athletic Club recently. Despite these struggles, Diego Simeone’s squad remains a formidable European presence, proven by their semifinal run last season.

Match Outlook and History

The match promises excitement, with Liverpool’s attacking talent likely to test Atlético’s occasionally shaky defense. Players like Bradley Barcola, Alexander Isak, and Cody Gakpo could exploit these weaknesses, while Florian Wirtz adds further threat.

Atlético, familiar with hostile atmospheres at Anfield, possess attacking firepower capable of challenging Liverpool’s backline. Yet, the hosts’ edge in quality might prove decisive when it matters most.

Anfield has been a fortress for Liverpool’s Champions League openers; they’ve never lost at home in their first match of the competition, boasting 10 wins and 2 draws from 12 such games. The last three home openers all finished with a 3–2 scoreline.

Recent Scoring Trends

• Liverpool have scored two goals in each of their three Premier League matches so far this season.
• Atlético Madrid have netted two or more goals in three of their four La Liga fixtures.

Head-to-Head Record This Decade

• These teams have faced off five times in the Champions League since 2020.
• Atlético Madrid won the first two encounters, including a memorable 3–2 win at Anfield in 2020.
• Liverpool have claimed victory in the last three meetings.

Score Prediction

We think the match will be a close contest mirroring past results, with Liverpool edging out Atlético Madrid 3–2.

Expected Lineups

Liverpool (4-2-3-1)

• Goalkeeper: Alisson
• Defenders: Ronald Araújo, Jacquet, Virgil van Dijk, Kerkez
• Midfielders: Szoboszlai, Mac Allister
• Attacking Midfielders: Cody Gakpo, Florian Wirtz, Bradley Barcola
• Forward: Alexander Isak

Bradley Barcola is expected to start after impressing off the bench against Ipswich. Gakpo might shift to the right wing to accommodate him. Ronald Araújo’s solid performance at right back secures his place. Missing players include Wataru Endō, Federico Chiesa, Joe Gomez, Hugo Ekitiké, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni due to injuries or squad omissions.

Atlético Madrid (4-4-2)

• Goalkeeper: Oblak
• Defenders: Llorente, Pubill, Cristian Romero, Grimaldo
• Midfielders: Simeone, Barrios, Hjulmand, Lookman
• Forwards: Julián Alvarez, Baena

Julián Alvarez could return to the starting lineup despite his summer transfer drama. Alexander Sørloth is out injured, while Arnau Ortiz is suspended. Jonathan David may make his club debut from the bench. Cristian Romero might start at center back in place of Dávid Hancko.

Match Details and Broadcast Info

• 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)

How to Watch

• 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