Liverpool will return to Champions League action on Wednesday, 18 September 2025, hosting Atletico Madrid at Anfield in their first group stage match. This marks Liverpool’s first continental game since March and comes during a period of strong domestic performance.
Under Arne Slot, Liverpool have won all four of their Premier League matches this season, although each victory required late efforts to secure the points. Wins over Bournemouth, Newcastle, Arsenal, and Burnley highlight their fighting spirit but also suggest a tendency to clinch results late. Facing Atletico, known for their solid defense and ability to perform well away from home, will be a significant challenge for Liverpool’s sharpness and composure.
Liverpool’s Recent Form and Momentum
The reigning Premier League champions enter the game after a string of strong performances:
Burnley 0–1 Liverpool (Premier League)
Liverpool 1–0 Arsenal (Premier League)
Newcastle 2–3 Liverpool (Premier League)
Liverpool 4–2 Bournemouth (Premier League)
Crystal Palace 2–2 Liverpool (Community Shield)
This run highlights both their attacking threat and their tenacity in grinding out wins. At Anfield, they have been particularly dominant, boasting a 14-game winning streak in UEFA group stage home matches.
Atletico Madrid’s Inconsistent Start
In contrast, Atletico Madrid have had a patchy start domestically. Under Simeone, they drew with Alavés and Elche, lost narrowly to Espanyol, but returned to winning ways with a 2-0 victory against Villarreal last weekend.
Atletico 2–0 Villarreal (La Liga)
Alavés 1–1 Atletico (La Liga)
Atletico 1–1 Elche (La Liga)
Espanyol 2–1 Atletico (La Liga)
Newcastle 0–2 Atletico (Friendly)
Consistency has been an issue, compounded by injuries.
Team News and Injuries
Liverpool
Alexis Mac Allister is doubtful after a knock versus Burnley, and may be rested.
Curtis Jones remains sidelined.
Jeremie Frimpong is set to return at right-back, enabling Dominik Szoboszlai to move into midfield.
New signing Alexander Isak is back in the squad and could make his European debut but will likely start on the bench to regain fitness.
Stefan Bajčetić and Rhys Williams remain uncertain.
Atletico Madrid
Julian Alvarez is out with a knee injury suffered last weekend.
Jose Maria Gimenez, Thiago Almada, Johnny Cardoso, and Alex Baena are also unavailable.
Robin Le Normand, David Hancko, and Nico Gonzalez passed late fitness tests and have traveled.
Alvarez’s absence is a significant loss, having scored 29 goals last season and been named Atletico’s Player of the Season. The attacking responsibility now falls largely on Antoine Griezmann, Alvaro Morata, and Alexander Sorloth, who collectively netted 41 goals last year.
Likely Lineups
Liverpool (4-2-3-1):
Alisson; Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike.
Bench: Isak, Kerkez, Mac Allister (if fit).
Atletico Madrid (4-4-2):
Oblak; Molina, Le Normand, Hermoso, Reinildo; Llorente, Koke, Barrios, Riquelme; Griezmann, Morata/Sorloth.
Key Matchups to Watch
Salah vs Reinildo: Salah was the late match-winner at Burnley but will aim for a more dominant showing. Atletico’s left side will focus on containing him.
Van Dijk & Konaté vs Griezmann & Sorloth: Without Alvarez, Atletico relies on Griezmann’s skill and Sorloth’s strength, so Liverpool’s centre-backs must be alert.
Midfield Battle: Gravenberch & Szoboszlai vs Koke & Barrios: Midfield control will be vital, pitting Liverpool’s energy against Atletico’s experience.
The Anfield Effect
Anfield has often been a fortress on European nights, with the passionate crowd expected to play a key role once again. Liverpool will be expected to control the game, especially given Atletico’s injury issues. Yet, Simeone’s teams are known for their resilience and tactical savvy to frustrate stronger opponents.
The Opta model ranks Liverpool among the favorites to win the Champions League this season, but Atletico remain a dangerous side despite their setbacks.
Prediction
With Alvarez sidelined and Liverpool enjoying strong home form, the advantage leans toward the Reds. However, these fixtures have historically been hard-fought. Expect a close, tactical encounter where Liverpool’s squad depth and late-game grit may ultimately decide the result.
Predicted Score: Liverpool 2–1 Atletico Madrid
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