Liverpool’s quest to overcome their problems continues on Thursday when they take on Atalanta in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-finals.
The Reds are the heavy favorites in this match and are expected to put in a strong performance at home. Jurgen Klopp will be able to call on a handful of strikers to help them complete their duties against the Italian side, who sit sixth in Serie A and are looking for their first semi-final berth in European competition.
Here’s what you need to know before you tune in.
How to watch and odds
- Date: Thursday April 11 | Time: 3:00 PM ET
- Place: Anfield-Liverpool, England
- Live stream: Biggest+
- Chances: Liverpool 360; Sign +470; Atalanta +750
Storylines
Liverpool return to the pitch a few days after a disappointing 2-2 draw against Manchester United, a result that damaged their chances of winning the Premier League title. They are certainly not out of the running there, but they can go into their Europa League match with a renewed desire to lift this trophy as they remain the favorites in this competition.
The Reds are still in strong form and have suffered just one defeat in their last 25 games, so another win on Thursday is expected. Mohamed Salah has scored four goals in the team’s last five games and could be called up to continue that run, while Darwin Nunez has scored three in that period and Luis Diaz two. However, Klopp has been able to rely on several goalscorers this season, so Liverpool’s attacking prowess could really shine against Atalanta.
Prediction
This is Liverpool’s game – and draw – to lose, and there is little reason to believe that will be the case. The Reds are more often than not prone to giving in, but usually cleverly find a way to beat the opposition, so expect them to do the same on Thursday. Choose: Liverpool4, Atalanta1
