The big game is coming up as Real Madrid and Liverpool, the soccer rivals of recent years, meet again on the green pitch. Looking back, my former employers, the Galacticos, had a slightly better record against the Reds.
Since 2018, Real Madrid have managed to beat the Reds in two UEFA finals and once in the last eight, a series of victories that have undoubtedly built up a strong psychological advantage for Real Madrid.
Wannes Oszulia's crucial goal in last season's UEFA Europa League final has convinced me that he will be a threat to be reckoned with in this match. Given that Liverpool's right winger Alexandre Arnault frequently gets forward to assist, the gap behind him will be the key to Real Madrid's breakthrough. The Brazilian international will be able to create a threat in this area once Real Madrid succeed in stealing the ball.
The midfield battle is also crucial. Both teams are playing a 4-3-3 formation, but I don't think Liverpool are as solid in the midfield as they used to be. If Real Madrid can control the center of the midfield, they can put their opponents in a tough battle.
Liverpool's front line combination has undergone a major change this season. Real Madrid used to have to guard against the threat of Shadio Vinny, but now, the new trio consists of the young and promising Gap partnering Davin Nunes, and Mohamed Sana.
While I don't think the front line led by Sana, Gap and Nunes can match the heyday of Sana, Vinny and Firmino, they certainly have the ability to cause problems for the Real Madrid defense, and I'm sure they will continue to improve as time goes on.
Reds leader Gopp is eager to win at home to get a head start for the second leg of the Round of 16 match at the Stade de la Bannabe. Therefore, they will adopt an aggressive attacking strategy in this match. I believe that the Galaxy will be able to handle the pressure and continue their dominance against the Reds and come back with a win on the road.
