Liverpool have enjoyed sensational form in the early months of Arne Slot’s tenure and face their toughest test yet when they host reigning European champions Real Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday.

The Reds are currently top of both the Premier League and Champions League as December approaches, an absolutely unimaginable feat when Slot succeeded the popular Jurgen Klopp this summer. They have won all four European games so far and are eight points clear at the top of the English top division.

Although Real Madrid has faced significantly more adversity this season and sits 18th in the Champions League table, it still represents a strong opponent. However, Los Blancos are missing some key players due to injuries: Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal have these Lost season and the two Brazilian offensive stars Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo will have to take a break in the near future.

If Slot can hold serve at home, the sky is the limit for Liverpool on several fronts this season.

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Liverpool vs Real Madrid prediction, odds

• Moneyline Lean: Liverpool (-135 on BetMGM)
• Result prediction: Liverpool – Real Madrid 3-1

While Real Madrid are a threat regardless of their form or situation, it is simply too difficult to support Los Blancos on the road against such a strong opponent who is dealing with so many injuries. The Spanish giants were already struggling to overcome their defensive failures and now Vinicius Jr.’s injury may be too much to overcome.

Kylian Mbappe may enjoy the advantages that Real Madrid’s attack has on its own, but the rest of the team will struggle to adapt. Away at Anfield, this is too good an opportunity for Liverpool to pass up.

Facts about the Liverpool vs. Real Madrid game

• Date: Wednesday, November 27, 2024
• Kick-off time: 8:00 p.m. local time (3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT)
• Location: Anfield Stadium (Liverpool, England)
• Referee: Francois Letexier (FRA)
• Last meeting: Real Madrid – Liverpool 1-0 (March 15, 2023 | Champions League)

Liverpool vs Real Madrid best bet

There is no one in Europe in better shape than Mohamed Salah. No matter the location, opponent or situation, the Egyptian was able to either find the net himself or set up a teammate for a high percentage chance.

Salah has either scored or assisted a goal in 13 of 16 games this season in the Premier League and Champions League and one in five of them. Given Real Madrid’s injury problems and the terrible form of Ferland Mendy (who Carlo Ancelotti said will play against Liverpool again, gulp) at Salah’s side, this is an exceptional opportunity for the Egyptian to get his first ever win against Real Madrid to get in on his ninth attempt.

Liverpool vs Real Madrid prop bet

Plus, the chances of a masterclass from Kylian Mbappé in the event of a defeat are a gift.

The French superstar has struggled to adapt to a front line that also includes wingers Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo. With both Brazilian teammates now out through injury, the attack will rely heavily on Mbappe, a situation in which he thrives.

With a goal in five attempts against Leganes at the weekend, Mbappe may now be finding his feet in Madrid and his influence will be crucial if the Spanish visitors are to enjoy attacking offense against an in-form Liverpool defence. He is familiar with such a result, having previously scored for PSG in a 3-2 defeat at Anfield in 2018.