Steve Nicol has urged Liverpool to deliver a strong and convincing performance when they host Real Madrid at Anfield in tonight’s Champions League clash. The Reds had suffered six defeats in seven matches across all competitions before securing a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa at the weekend, a much-improved display that provided a timely morale boost ahead of facing Xabi Alonso’s side.
Real Madrid have been in scintillating form this season, winning 13 of their 14 games and scoring 34 goals, more than half of which have come from the in-form Kylian Mbappe. Speaking to ESPN FC ahead of the match, Nicol highlighted what Liverpool must do to have any chance against the 15-time European champions.
“They have to be favorites, no question,” Nicol said. “Real Madrid are playing at a level Liverpool currently aren’t. I want to see a strong performance – a frontline that’s direct, exciting, and decisive, and a back four that works as a unit. That’s essential against a team with Real Madrid’s firepower, especially with Mbappe leading the line. For me, it’s all about the performance.”
On a potential scoreline, Nicol predicted a 2-1 win for Real Madrid. “Liverpool have to focus on what’s in front of them, and right now, that’s a team far superior to them,” he explained. “Home advantage can only take you so far. Defensively, Liverpool have been struggling, and they need to step up.”
Last season, when Real Madrid visited Anfield, Liverpool were in the midst of a seven-match winning streak and were in peak form. While the recent win over Aston Villa has steadied the ship, Arne Slot’s side are not in the same dominant shape, making Alonso’s team clear favorites on paper.
Yet, nothing energizes Anfield like a high-stakes European clash, and that intangible factor could give Liverpool a boost in their bid for a positive result. The Reds’ defense will need to be at its best to contain Mbappe, who has a bitter memory of the stadium after having a penalty saved and being brought down by Conor Bradley last November.
While Nicol remains cautious about Liverpool’s chances, there’s hope that the Merseysiders can rise to the occasion, secure a hard-earned point, and build momentum ahead of their trip to Manchester City next weekend.
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