RB Leipzig vs Liverpool: Full Match Preview, Predictions, and Key Players

RB Leipzig vs Liverpool, a critical must-see match in the UEFA Champions League group stage, will unfold on October 23, 2024, at 22:00. This game promises much drama and proper intensity, as both sides are battling for momentum in the competition.

RB Leipzig enters this match under pressure, having lost their last two UCL games to Atlético Madrid and Juventus by narrow margins, despite taking early leads in both encounters. Another loss, especially after scoring first, would set an unwanted record in the competition’s history.  However, they found some form back in the Bundesliga with good consecutive clean-sheet victories keeping them on level terms with league leaders, Bayern Munich.

On the other hand, Liverpool has a strong record against Bundesliga opponents: last time they met, they beat Leipzig home and away, 2-0, in the UCL. The Reds have managed to get the better of German teams more recently, having had seven wins and a draw in the last eight outings. What is even more promising for Liverpool is their good form under the new management of Arne Slot-Unprecedented 10 wins from the first 11 games of all competitions-have filled them with confidence by the time they arrive at the Red Bull Arena.

RB Leipzig’s Struggles in UCL

It is off to a hard start for RB Leipzig in the new UCL format. After suffering heartbreaking losses to Atlético Madrid (2-1) and Juventus (3-2), the German club finds itself in a difficult position. To compound matters, in both of these matches, Leipzig were ahead after taking the early lead but failed to maintain that lead. Should they lose against Liverpool, after being a goal up, they will become the first side to lose three matches in a row in UCL history after taking the lead.

However, there is hope for Marco Rose’s side. Having stuttered in UCL matches, RB Leipzig is back on track with two Bundesliga wins without conceding a goal, thus staying level on points with Bayern Munich at the top of the Bundesliga. But their record against PL teams will worry them, for Leipzig has lost six of their last eight encounters (W1, D1), including two 2-0 losses to Liverpool during 2020/21 UCL campaigns.

Liverpool’s Dominance Against Bundesliga Teams

Liverpool, under new manager Arne Slot, have shown remarkable form this season, winning 10 out of 11 games, including a recent victory over Chelsea.

The start to the campaign is their best yet since 1990-91, and the record against Bundesliga teams speaks for itself, seven wins from their last eight matches in the UEFA Champions League. Slot’s side has also excelled in UCL away matches, winning nine of their last 11 such matches.  

Key Players to Watch

For Leipzig, Benjamin Šeško will be crucial. He has scored all three of RB Leipzig’s UCL goals this season and often finds the back of the net early, with five of his six goals this season coming in the first 30 minutes.

On the other hand, Dominik Szoboszlai, now in Liverpool colors but a former Leipzig player, could steal the show. His influence on both sides has been impressive, with 25 goalscoring appearances across his time at Leipzig and Liverpool leading to 24 wins (D1).

RB Leipzig vs Liverpool: Predicted Lineups

RB Leipzig: Gulacsi; Orban, Klostermann, Lukeba; Geertruida, Haidara, Vermeeren, Nusa; Simons; Šeško, Openda
Liverpool: Kelleher; Gomez, Konate, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Salah, Jones, Diaz; Nunez

Betting Opportunities and Odds

For those interested in placing bets, Liverpool is the clear favorite. Betting odds from GSB reflect this:

• Liverpool win (1.85): Heavy backing for a Liverpool victory.
• RB Leipzig win (3.75): Leipzig’s odds highlight their underdog status.

Prediction

This clash promises excitement, with both teams possessing the firepower to make it an end-to-end contest. Liverpool’s consistency in Europe suggests they are likely to convert their opportunities, while Leipzig may struggle to break down their opponent’s defense. A 1-3 victory for Liverpool seems a likely outcome, considering their current form and superior European experience.