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Liverpool vs Atlético Madrid: Champions League Clash Preview and Lineups

On Wednesday, Liverpool kick off their 2026–27 Champions League campaign by welcoming Atlético Madrid to Anfield. This match marks the sixth meeting between these two sides this decade and follows last season’s thrilling encounter at the same venue. In that game, Liverpool surged ahead with two quick goals but had to rely on Virgil van Dijk’s late winner to secure the victory.

The Reds will approach this fixture with a new Champions League manager in charge. Andoni Iraola takes the reins for the first time in Europe after earning his first win with a 2–0 triumph over Ipswich Town last Friday. Having previously faced Atlético four times as Rayo Vallecano's coach without success, Iraola faces a tough test against Diego Simeone’s team.

Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid are struggling to find their rhythm early this season, partly due to the unsettled situation surrounding Julián Alvarez’s transfer saga. Their confidence took a hit after a 3–0 loss to Athletic Club at the weekend. Despite recent challenges, Atlético remain a formidable European side, evident from their semifinal run last year.

Match Outlook: Goals and Drama Expected at Anfield

Anfield often turns into a cauldron of excitement during big matches, and this one looks set to continue that tradition. Liverpool’s defense has shown vulnerabilities, yet their attack can be dazzling. Players like Bradley Barcola, who may start for the first time, alongside in-form Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo, could cause problems for Atlético’s shaky backline. Florian Wirtz adds another creative threat that might unsettle the visitors.

Atlético have experience managing the intense atmosphere at Anfield and boast strong attacking options themselves, which means the hosts cannot afford complacency. Still, Liverpool’s extra edge might tip the balance in crucial moments.

  • Anfield Record: Liverpool have never lost their opening Champions League home match, winning 10 and drawing 2 out of 12 games. The last three openers all finished 3–2.
  • Goals Scored: Liverpool have scored twice in each of their Premier League games so far; Atlético have netted two or more in three out of four La Liga fixtures.
  • Head-to-Head: The teams met five times this decade in the Champions League. Atlético won the first two, including a famous 3–2 away victory in 2020, but Liverpool have taken the last three encounters.

Prediction: Liverpool 3–2 Atlético Madrid

Likely Liverpool Starting XI

Iraola may hand Bradley Barcola his first start after confirming he is ready for extended minutes. If Barcola starts, expect Cody Gakpo to shift wide right. Alexander Isak aims to score in three consecutive Liverpool games for the first time. On defense, Ronald Araújo impressed recently and should keep his spot at right-back.

Injuries and squad choices mean Wataru Endō and Federico Chiesa are absent from the Champions League roster, while Joe Gomez, Hugo Ekitiké, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni remain sidelined.

  • Formation (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Araújo, Jacquet, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister; Gakpo, Wirtz, Barcola; Isak.

Predicted Atlético Madrid Lineup

Diego Simeone hopes his side makes an impact. Julián Alvarez could return to the starting lineup after resolving his summer transfer issues, especially with Alexander Sørloth injured. Suspended Arnau Ortiz will miss the game, but Juventus loanee Jonathan David might debut off the bench.

Summer signing Lee Kang-in is expected to feature, and Cristian Romero could earn his first start at center-back, replacing Dávid Hancko.

  • Formation (4-4-2): Oblak; Llorente, Pubill, Romero, Grimaldo; Simeone, Barrios, Hjulmand, Lookman; Alvarez, Baena.

Match Details

  • Location: Liverpool, England
  • Stadium: Anfield
  • Date: Wednesday, September 9
  • Kickoff: 8 p.m. BST / 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT
  • Referee: Davide Massa (Italy)
  • VAR: Marco Di Bello (Italy)

How to Watch Liverpool vs Atlético Madrid

  • 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

For a full list of Champions League broadcasters worldwide, viewers should check local listings.

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