After a three-week break, the Champions League tournament battles returned to delight football fans. This week, the attention of most fans will be focused on the stadiums of Rome and Liverpool, where world-class clubs will clash.
"Liverpool" - Madrid's "Real"
Brendan Rodgers' army awaits a special challenge - facing the royal club that intimidates all opponents.
The Spanish giants will try to extend their series of seven consecutive wins in all tournaments. The impressive "Real" often responds to opponents with five goals.
"At the moment, the Madrid team has reached a level of play that I haven't seen in many years. They have everything: experience, great footballers, speed, individual mastery.
"La Liga" representatives are led by the fantastic coach Carlo Ancelotti - a great guy who knows how to get the maximum from his players," said Rodgers.
"There is no better counterattacking team in the world than 'Real'. Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale could participate in the 100m sprint at the Olympic Games."
Meanwhile, Madrid's coach C. Ancelotti warned the "Reds" fans not to provoke C. Ronaldo extra, otherwise the Portuguese could shine in all his glory.
"Cristiano is always super motivated. But the opposition atmosphere gives him even more strength."
Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard believes in his team's abilities, despite the uncertain performance against QPR in the Premier League.
"We slipped up in Switzerland before, so we must take something from the match against the Spaniards.
I think we have the best chances at home, although we would like to bring points from the 'Santiago Bernabeu' stadium. Beating 'Real' is difficult, but a possible task.
I understand that our opponents are tasked with winning all games, and I admit that we are not favorites. But with the support of fans and a special atmosphere, I believe we can upset the 'Real' club."
Injuries. The away team will have to make do without the injured G. Bale and Sergio Ramos, while "Liverpool" will not be able to rely on Daniel Sturridge, and Mamadou Sakho's chances of playing remain unclear.
Interesting facts. "Real" and "Liverpool" have played three times, with the English winning all matches - the 1980-81 European Cup final and the 2008-09 Champions League quarter-final.
The "Reds" not only achieved all victories but also maintained a "clean sheet."
"Liverpool" is the only Champions League team with a 100 percent winning record against "Real."
TV. TV6 will broadcast the match live at 21:35.
