Anfield Awaits: A Decisive European Night for the Reds
The Road to the Round of 16: Liverpool's European Ambition
On Wednesday, Liverpool will engage in a critical European contest at Anfield, hosting Azerbaijani champions Qarabağ FK. This encounter marks the final fixture of the league phase, with significant implications for both clubs. For Arne Slot's team, a victory is paramount as it would guarantee an automatic place in the Round of 16, thereby allowing them to circumvent the demanding February play-off round. The Reds are determined to recover swiftly from their recent disappointing domestic defeat to Bournemouth and maintain their strong European momentum.
Unbeaten Streak Continues: Liverpool's European Dominance
Despite a recent domestic setback, Liverpool's form in continental competitions has been exceptional, exemplified by their convincing 3-0 triumph over Marseille last week. This upcoming match also adds a unique detail to the club's history; Qarabağ will be the first opponent whose name begins with 'Q' to play against Liverpool, leaving 'X' as the sole letter remaining on their list of European adversaries.
Match Details: Kick-off and Venue Information
The highly anticipated match is scheduled for Wednesday, January 28, 2026, with kick-off at 8:00 PM GMT. The legendary Anfield stadium in Liverpool will serve as the battleground. Ivan Kruzliak (SVK) will officiate the game, with Pol van Boekel (NED) on VAR duty. This will be the first competitive meeting between these two teams.
Liverpool's Defensive Quandary: A Crisis in the Backline
Manager Arne Slot faces a significant challenge with a depleted defensive squad, as only one senior center-back is fully fit. Joe Gomez is sidelined due to a hip injury sustained during the weekend, joining Alexander Isak, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni on the injury list. Furthermore, Ibrahima Konaté is currently on compassionate leave. Consequently, Wataru Endo is anticipated to move into the central defense alongside Virgil van Dijk. On a more positive note, Federico Chiesa has resumed training and is available for selection.
Qarabağ's Strategic Preparations: Resting Key Players for Anfield
The visiting team arrives with a mixed roster availability. Young talent Dastan Satpayev is a significant doubt after missing their last European match, and new winter signings Lucas Africo, Jaako Oksanen, and Sebastian Zeballos are ineligible for this stage of the competition. Coach Gurban Gurbanov strategically rotated his squad in their recent domestic loss to Kapaz, resting 11 players to ensure a well-rested starting eleven for the crucial trip to England.
Liverpool's Impressive Home Record: A Fortress at Anfield
The Reds are currently ranked fourth in the Champions League standings, boasting an impressive 71% win rate in their European matches this season. Notably, none of Liverpool's last 33 group or league phase games in UEFA competitions have ended in a draw, a remarkable streak dating back to December 2020. Furthermore, the team has secured victory in 13 of their past 14 Champions League home games at Anfield. They are eager to rebound from a disappointing 3-2 defeat to Bournemouth, which impacted their domestic title aspirations.
Qarabağ's European Ambitions: The Horsemen's Challenge in England
Known as the "Horsemen," Qarabağ currently holds the 18th position in the league phase and is actively striving to secure a play-off spot. They have demonstrated their capability as formidable opponents, recently achieving a draw against Chelsea and securing victories over both Eintracht Frankfurt and Copenhagen on home turf. However, playing on English soil has historically proven difficult for Azerbaijani clubs, who have lost all previous away games in England with a combined goal difference of 13-1.
Anticipated Starting Lineups: Key Players for Both Sides
Liverpool's probable starting XI is expected to feature Alisson in goal, with Frimpong, Endo, Van Dijk, and Robertson forming the defensive line. The midfield is likely to include Gravenberch, Jones, and Szoboszlai, while Salah, Wirtz, and Ekitiké are anticipated to lead the attack. Qarabağ's predicted lineup includes Kochalski in goal, supported by a defense of Silva, Mustafazada, Medina, and Cafarquliyev. Jankovic and Bicalho are expected in midfield, with Andrade, Montiel, and Zoubir supporting striker Duran.
Viewing Information: How to Catch the Match in the UK
For fans in the UK, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 2. Coverage is scheduled to commence at 7:30 PM GMT on television and will also be available via the discovery+ application.