Hoffenheim vs Liverpool: Champions League play off preview
Liverpool travel to Germany to face TSG 1899 Hoffenheim on Tuesday in the Champions League play off first leg. Here is our match preview:
The Reds will take on Hoffenheim in Germany for the first leg of the Champions League Play Off this Tuesday at 19:45pm (UK time). After the disappointing finish to the 3-3 draw against Watford, it is important the team stayed focused and be prepared for this game. With only 3 days to rest, it will be interesting to see how many changes Jürgen Klopp makes to the first team.
The most worrying thing for me, after seeing our performance against Watford, is our defense. They clearly need to communicate more and stay in the right shape. Their clueless performance on Saturday is exactly why Watford managed to score three goals.
Last six games (including preseason):
- Liverpool: DWWWWD
- Hoffenheim: DWLWDW
Liverpool had looked sharp, quick on the ball and were showing positive signs during preseason, but only managed to pick up one point at Watford. This shows a lot about the team mentality; they can counter attack and play scintillating attacking football at anytime, provided the they are up for it.
The Champions League is huge for Liverpool. It is a chance to write your name in history. Having won it five times already, we are desperate to add another chapter to that history. Could this be the year they make it six times?
My starting 11:
With no one returning from injury, I would leave the team unchanged. Despite the result, we were outstanding on the ball and saw some flowing football in the second half. Especially seeing Salah, Mané and Firmino together on the same pitch.
Mignolet; Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Lovren, Moreno; Henderson, Can, Wijnaldum; Salah, Firmino, Mane.
I would love to see Dominic Solanke come on at some point during this game to see how well he adapts under pressure, especially in Europe.
I am going for a 1-2 win, with Sadio Mané once again amongst the goals.