“They have to be the favourites…” – Steve Nicol shares his prediction ahead of the Liverpool vs Real Madrid showdown.
Steve Nicol has urged Liverpool to produce a strong and united performance when they face Real Madrid at Anfield in tonight’s Champions League showdown.
The Reds recently ended a dismal run of six defeats in seven games with a 2-0 win over Aston Villa, restoring some belief ahead of the visit of Xabi Alonso’s in-form Madrid, who have won 13 of their 14 matches this season, driven by Kylian Mbappé’s red-hot form.
Speaking on ESPN FC, the Liverpool legend admitted Madrid “have to be favourites” given their current dominance and Liverpool’s struggles, but he challenged his former club to show fight and focus:
> “I’m looking for a performance — for the frontline to be direct and exciting, and for the back four to be united. They’ll need to be, especially against Mbappé. For me, this is about the performance.”
Pressed for a score prediction, Nicol tipped Real Madrid to win 2-1, insisting the Spanish giants are simply “a better team right now.”
Still, with Anfield’s famous atmosphere behind them, Liverpool could yet defy the odds and earn a vital result to build confidence before their crucial trip to Manchester City next weekend.
