RB Leipzig vs Liverpool Preview

• Liverpool to win
• Both teams to score

RB Leipzig’s Struggles in the UCL

RB Leipzig have endured a tough start to the new league-phase format of the UEFA Champions League, suffering two narrow defeats, 2-1 to Atlético Madrid and 3-2 to Juventus.

Adding to the frustration, Marco Rose’s side opened the scoring in both matches but failed to hold on, highlighting their defensive vulnerabilities.

Now, they face the risk of becoming the first team in UCL history to lose three consecutive matches after netting first if they start quickly but falter again against Liverpool.

On a positive note, Leipzig have bounced back domestically, earning two consecutive Bundesliga victories without conceding, keeping them level with Bayern Munich at the top of the table.

However, their record against Premier League opposition is a cause for concern, with the German side losing six of their last eight matches against English teams (W1, D1). This includes two 2-0 defeats to Liverpool in the 2020/21 UCL round of 16.

Liverpool’s Dominance Against German Teams

Liverpool are no strangers to facing RB Leipzig, but this will be their first visit to Leipzig’s Red Bull Arena, as previous encounters were held in Budapest due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Venue aside, the Reds have a stellar record against German opposition, winning seven of their last eight UCL matches against Bundesliga sides (D1).

Their overall record against German teams is equally impressive, with just six losses in 42 games (W22, D14).

Arne Slot’s Liverpool have started the season in scintillating form, winning ten of their 11 games across all competitions (L1), including a recent victory over Chelsea that keeps them top of the Premier League table.

Liverpool’s strength on the road in Europe is another advantage, having won nine of their last 11 UCL away matches. Slot will be eager to maintain this momentum, making this Liverpool’s best start to a season since the 1990/91 campaign.

Key Players to Watch

Benjamin Šeško (RB Leipzig)

Šeško has been RB Leipzig’s standout player in the UCL this season, scoring all three of their goals. Known for making an early impact, five of his six club goals this term have come within the first 30 minutes, making him a key player to watch in the early stages of this match.

Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool)  

The former RB Leipzig player returns to his old club, and he’ll be looking to make an impact for his new side. Szoboszlai has been a good luck charm for both clubs, with 24 wins (D1) in the 25 games he’s scored for RB Leipzig and Liverpool. His presence could be decisive in this clash.

Conclusion

Liverpool come into this clash as favourites, given their stellar record against German opposition and strong start under Arne Slot.

RB Leipzig, on the other hand, will need to tighten their defence and build on their domestic success if they are to prevent another UCL loss.

Expect an entertaining match, with both teams boasting attacking talent, but Liverpool’s experience and form may prove too much for Leipzig to handle.

Prediction: Liverpool to win, though Leipzig may still find the net.

For more info on this game, you may also visit:
Leipzig vs Liverpool | UEFA Champions League 2024/25