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Liverpool finally put an end to its dismal run of domestic losses with a much-needed victory over Aston Villa at the weekend. However, any sense of relief will be fleeting as it now prepares to face European heavyweight Real Madrid.
The match is set to be explosive, not only because it features two of football's most prestigious clubs, but also because it marks Trent Alexander-Arnold's first return to Merseyside since his contentious summer transfer to the Spanish capital.
Both teams have made strong starts to their Champions League campaigns. Real Madrid has maintained a flawless record so far, while Liverpool has secured victories in two of its first three matches.
A win here would edge either side closer to early qualification for the knockout stages, whilst a loss could raise questions about their chances of automatic progression.
Los Blancos approach the tie in formidable form. Xabi Alonso's squad have clinched six consecutive wins in all competitions, including resounding triumphs over Barcelona and Juventus.
They also hold a five-point lead at the top of La Liga, having secured 10 victories from 11 matches to date.
In contrast, Arne Slot's Reds have suffered six defeats in their last eight outings across all competitions and will need to deliver something extraordinary to reverse their fortunes. Yet, under the Anfield floodlights, anything seems achievable.
Here's everything you need to know ahead of the clash.
When is Liverpool vs Real Madrid?
The highly anticipated game is set for Tuesday, November 4 at Anfield, with an 8 pm UK time kick-off. This fixture is part of Matchday 4 in the Champions League league phase, where Liverpool will host the Spanish titans in what is expected to be a thrilling encounter.
How to watch Liverpool vs Real Madrid for free
In the UK, Amazon Prime Video holds exclusive broadcasting rights for first-pick Tuesday Champions League matches. Supporters can enjoy the game for free by signing up for a 30-day free trial of Amazon Prime, which includes access to the UEFA Champions League coverage.
Simply create an account, stream the match live - the build-up begins at 6.30 pm UK time - and cancel before the trial ends to avoid any charges. The usual cost of Prime membership is £8.99 per month or £95 per year, but the trial offers full access without commitment.
For international viewers, check local broadcasters like Paramount+ in the US.
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Liverpool team news
Alexander Isak looks set to miss out again, with the striker having missed the last three matches due to a groin injury. The Swede has had a slow start to his career at Anfield and given his lack of a full pre-season, the Reds are unlikely to risk him prematurely.
Curtis Jones is also uncertain after sustaining a groin issue during the 3-2 defeat to Brentford. The midfielder missed training ahead of the Aston Villa clash and faces a race against time to be fit.
Liverpool will be missing key players Alisson Becker, Jeremie Frimpong and Giovanni Leoni due to injuries. Both Alisson and Frimpong are set to return post the international break, while Leoni's season has been cut short by an ACL tear.
Real Madrid team news
The defence of Alonso's side has suffered some blows recently. With captain Dani Carvajal likely to sit out, Alexander-Arnold could start against his old club.
Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba are also predicted to remain on the sidelines, paving the way for Eder Militao and ex-Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen to continue their center-back partnership.
In contrast, Real Madrid's attack is in full force. Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham are all fit and ready to form a formidable offensive line-up.
Head to head
Liverpool can draw confidence from its last encounter with Real Madrid, which was just under a year ago. They secured a 2-0 victory at Anfield, with Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo netting the goals.
However, this win was a rare highlight in a challenging recent history against the Spanish heavyweights. Prior to this victory, Liverpool had suffered seven losses in its previous eight matches against Real - a streak that includes heartbreaking defeats in the 2018 and 2022 Champions League finals, as well as a crushing 5-2 defeat at Anfield in 2023.
Before its recent success, Liverpool's last win against Real Madrid was in 2009 when it famously thrashed the La Liga team 4-0 in the Champions League round of 16. The two clubs have faced each other a total of 12 times, with Liverpool claiming victory four times and suffering seven defeats.
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