Sabasports Match Preview
UEFA Champions League: RB Leipzig vs Liverpool
Kickoff Time: 2024-10-24 03:00(HKT)
Source:REUTERS/Phil Noble
RB Leipzig defeated Mainz 05 2-0 away last weekend, achieving their third consecutive victory in the league. However, in the Champions League, RB Leipzig has suffered two consecutive defeats. With the challenge of competing on two tournaments, RB Leipzig’s overall performance has been inconsistent. The team primarily employs a 4-4-2 formation, focusing on high pressing as their main tactical approach, while quick counterattacks are their most relied-upon scoring method. Statistically, RB Leipzig has scored 11 goals and conceded two in seven league matches this season. Although their attacking performance has been average, their defense has been outstanding, making them the team with the fewest goals conceded in the Bundesliga. However, whenever facing strong opponents in the Champions League, RB Leipzig’s offensive and defensive efficiency noticeably declines. In the first two rounds of the Champions League group stage, RB Leipzig scored three goals and conceded five, showing a significant drop in performance compared to their league play, which is a major reason for their consecutive defeats in the Champions League.
Liverpool secured a 2-1 victory over Chelsea at home last weekend, marking their 7th consecutive win across all competitions and showcasing their impressive form. Arne Slot has transformed Liverpool into a more composed team since taking over this season; they can control possession, dictate the pace, and calmly suppress their opponents. Liverpool’s tactics have shifted from Jurgen Klopp’s direct approach to a more structured possession-based strategy, which has strengthened their defense. Statistically, Liverpool has scored 15 goals and conceded thee in eight league matches this season. They have not only maintained their attacking sharpness but also significantly improved their defensive performance, making them the team with the fewest goals conceded in the Premier League. Additionally, Liverpool has also achieved two consecutive victories in the first two rounds of the Champions League group stage, demonstrating excellent form in the competition.
In terms of overall strength and form, Liverpool is clearly superior to RB Leipzig. Furthermore, Liverpool’s experience in the Champions League far exceeds that of RB Leipzig. Therefore, it is reasonable to believe that the highly motivated Liverpool can continue their winning streak and return victorious.
RB Leipzig’s Last 5 Games: WWLWD
24-10-19 Mainz 05 0-2 RB Leipzig
24-10-06 FC Heidenheim 0-1 RB Leipzig
24-10-03 RB Leipzig 2-3 Juventus
24-09-28 RB Leipzig 4-0 Augsburg
24-09-23 St. Pauli 0-0 RB Leipzig
Liverpool’s Last 5 Games: WWWWW
24-10-20 Liverpool 2-1 Chelsea
24-10-05 Crystal Palace 0-1 Liverpool
24-10-03 Liverpool 2-0 Bologna
24-09-29 Wolves 1-2 Liverpool
24-09-26 Liverpool 5-1 West Ham United
Head To Head Record:
22-07-22 RB Leipzig 0-5 Liverpool
21-03-11 Liverpool 2-0 RB Leipzig
21-02-17 RB Leipzig 0-2 Liverpool
Prediction: Liverpool to win