Liverpool face UCL debutants Bologna in first-ever meeting.
This Wednesday, Anfield sets the stage for a captivating UEFA Champions League encounter as Liverpool hosts newcomers Bologna, both aiming to make a statement in their maiden clash.
Liverpool
After initially going behind following a goal from Christian Pulisic [3’], Liverpool rallied to a 3-1 comeback win against AC Milan on UCL MD 1. Despite frayed nerves, the convincing victory came after a shock 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest. That loss was Liverpool’s only defeat in five games across all competitions [LWWWW], with their latest result being the weekend’s 2-1 win over Wolves.
Arne Slot has since settled into life as Liverpool boss. Back-to-back UCL wins will further boost his credentials as he looks to fill the big boots of his predecessor, Jurgen Klopp.
This will be the first meeting between Liverpool and Bologna. Despite being unfamiliar opponents, Liverpool, who have won each of their last ten group/league stage games at Anfield in major European competitions, will be looking to extend their strong form when they host the Italian outfit.
A 4-2-3-1 formation with Darwin Núñez, who missed the weekend’s game due to illness, is anticipated in attack against Bologna. Cody Gakpo, Mohamed Salah, and Dominik Szoboszlai could feature in attack right behind the Uruguayan. Harvey Elliott is the only confirmed absentee for this fixture.
Bologna
Bologna have only won once in their last five games across all competitions [DDDWD]. They earned a goalless draw in their debut UCL fixture against Shakhtar Donetsk on MD 1 and will be looking to avoid defeat when they travel to Liverpool.
Despite the goalless scoreline, Bologna had 17 shots, although only 4 were on target. Earning a point in their maiden UCL home fixture, Bologna joined the ranks of teams like Arsenal, Manchester City, and Inter Milan.
With seven games left in the league phase of the UEFA Champions League, Bologna are in 19th place. They are certainly underdogs for Wednesday’s fixture, but an interesting record might boost their confidence. Italian clubs have the joint-best record in European competitions at Anfield [7 wins], level with Spanish sides, which Vincenzo Italiano hopes will inspire his team.
A 4-3-3 formation with Castro at the center of the attack is expected for this fixture. Unfortunately, Lewis Ferguson and Tommaso Pobega are both ruled out of this midweek trip to Liverpool.
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