The Reds showcased their attacking prowess by scoring an incredible 11 goals against Sparta Prague in the last 16, propelling them into the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, Atalanta BC advanced past Sporting Lisbon, a team whose coach is rumored to be taking over at Liverpool next season. Despite some mixed performances away from Anfield, Liverpool comfortably secured a top spot in the group stage and bypassed a playoff tie to reach the last 16.
In the knockout rounds against Sparta Prague, Liverpool demonstrated their ruthless efficiency, especially in the second leg where they clinched a resounding 6-1 victory at Anfield. Their relentless attacking style has seen them score at least twice in each of their last five matches across all competitions.
However, Liverpool has recently faced setbacks at the hands of Manchester United, with defeats in the FA Cup quarter-finals and a draw in the Premier League. Nonetheless, under Klopp's guidance, their commitment to attacking football remains unwavering.
Their opponents, Atalanta BC, eliminated Sporting Lisbon in the previous round with a hard-fought victory. Despite their impressive attacking style, Atalanta has struggled in recent matches, winning only two of their last nine games in all competitions.
However, they did manage to secure a memorable 2-0 victory at Anfield in the 2020-21 Champions League group stage, although it came after a heavy 5-0 defeat at home.
Both teams will be aiming for a positive result in the first leg, with Liverpool seeking to capitalize on their home advantage and Atalanta aiming to make amends for their recent inconsistencies.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
None of Liverpool's seven injured players are expected to recover in time for the first leg of their quarter-final match. However, Alisson Becker, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Diogo Jota are anticipated to participate in partial training sessions this week and could potentially make their returns against Crystal Palace over the weekend.Unfortunately, Joel Matip, Ben Doak, Thiago Alcantara, and Stefan Bajcetic remain sidelined with longer-term injuries. However, Bajcetic has shown promising signs in Under-21s training sessions, indicating that he is nearing a comeback to the first team.
While Jarell Quansah's recent error against Manchester United may not warrant his immediate demotion, Klopp may opt for the experience of Ibrahima Konate in defense. Additionally, Cody Gakpo and Joe Gomez could provide fresh options for the Reds.
As for Atalanta, only Giorgio Scalvini is expected to miss out due to injury. The young center-back hurt his hamstring recently and is unlikely to feature in either leg of the tie against Liverpool.
Other than Scalvini, Gasperini has a full squad to choose from, with Charles De Ketelaere overcoming an adductor issue to feature in their recent match against Cagliari. However, Teun Koopmeiners is expected to be the key playmaker for Atalanta, despite speculation about his future at the club.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Liverpool possible starting lineup:Kelleher; Gomez, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Endo, Mac Allister; Salah, Gakpo, Diaz
Atalanta BC possible starting lineup:
Musso; Toloi, Djimsiti, Kolasinac; Zappacosta, Ederson, De Roon, Ruggeri; Koopmeiners; Lookman, Scamacca
EXPERT PREDICTION
Liverpool 3-2 Atalanta
Football fans can anticipate an electrifying clash between two teams known for their commitment to fast-paced, attacking football. However, Atalanta has struggled, particularly in their away games, in recent weeks, which may give Liverpool an edge.
While Atalanta may find opportunities to score against Liverpool's vulnerable defense, they could face difficulties containing Liverpool's potent attacking force. As the second leg approaches in Italy, Liverpool may already have a significant advantage to defend, putting Atalanta under pressure to mount a comeback.
