Liverpool vs Atlético Madrid: Champions League Opener Preview and Lineups

On Wednesday, Liverpool will kick off their 2026–27 Champions League journey by facing Atlético Madrid at Anfield. This marks the sixth time these clubs meet in this decade, and the second consecutive season they start the group phase against each other.

Last year’s opener saw Liverpool take an early lead with two goals in six minutes but eventually required a late goal from Virgil van Dijk to secure victory after conceding the advantage. This time, Liverpool's new manager Andoni Iraola makes his Champions League debut as he leads the Reds for the first time in Europe’s premier competition. His initial win came last Friday with a 2–0 triumph over Ipswich Town, easing some pressure before welcoming Atlético, a team he couldn’t beat in four matches while managing Rayo Vallecano.

Atlético Madrid's Rocky Start and European Credentials

The transfer saga involving Julián Alvarez has unsettled Atlético early in the season, adding tension following a 3–0 loss to Athletic Club over the weekend. Despite doubts, Diego Simeone’s squad remains a tough opponent in Europe, demonstrated by their semifinal appearance last season.

Match Outlook and Prediction

Chaos has marked the start of Iraola’s tenure at Liverpool, and another intense encounter is expected. Liverpool’s defense has shown vulnerability amid exciting attacking play. Forward Bradley Barcola could pose a threat against Atlético’s shaky backline, alongside in-form attackers Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo. Midfielder Florian Wirtz also has the potential to cause problems for the visitors.

Atlético are no strangers to battling under pressure and have plenty of attacking weapons capable of breaking down Liverpool’s defense. Still, Liverpool’s extra quality might be decisive in key moments.

• Anfield Record: Liverpool have never lost their first Champions League match at home, with 10 wins and 2 draws in 12 such games. The last three home openers ended 3-2.
• Goals Expected: Liverpool have scored twice in each of their Premier League games this season, while Atlético have scored two or more goals in three of four La Liga matches.
• Head-to-head: Since 2020, Atlético won the first two clashes including a 3-2 win at Anfield, but Liverpool took the last three meetings.

Score Prediction: Liverpool 3–2 Atlético Madrid

Projected Liverpool Lineup

Bradley Barcola may start his first game after impressing off the bench against Ipswich. If so, Gakpo might shift to the right wing. Isak aims to score in three straight Liverpool matches, while Ronald Araújo, on loan from Barcelona, is likely to keep his place at right back after a strong showing.

Unavailable players include Wataru Endō and Federico Chiesa, who were excluded from the Champions League squad, along with injured Joe Gomez, Hugo Ekitiké, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni.

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

Projected Atlético Madrid Lineup

Diego Simeone might reinstate Julián Alvarez following his return from requesting a transfer to Barcelona, especially with Alexander Sørloth sidelined by injury. Arnau Ortiz misses out due to suspension, while loanee Jonathan David could make his club debut off the bench.

Summer signing Lee Kang-in is expected to start alongside Alvarez, with Cristian Romero possibly making his first start at center back in place of Dávid Hancko.

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

Match Details and Broadcast Info

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

Where to Watch

• 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