UEFA Champions League
Group Stage Game 5
Wed 26th November 7.45pm @Anfield
Liverpool take on Marseille for the second time this season, the 4th time in the Champions League, and the sixth time in the club’s history, hopeful of ensuring qualification from Group D in the Champions League.
Steven Gerrard is expected to return after 10 days out following a muscle injury in the dying moments of the victory over Bolton. Fernando Torres successfully completed 90 minutes in the 0-0 draw against Fulham, and it may be Robbie Keane who finds his way to the bench after Rafa re-iterated his desire to see the Gerrard/Torres partnership back at its best.
Liverpool and Atletico Madrid are both on 8 points with Marseille and PSV on 3. A Liverpool victory would ensure qualification from the group. If the reds manage a draw then the reds will also qualify as long as Madrid don’t get lose to PSV.
Bolo Zenden now plays for Marseille and Bruno Cheyrou’s brother, Benoit, was a real threat to Liverpool in the first leg and one to watch.
It was Zenden’s last minute free kick at the weekend that helped Marseille get a 2-2 draw against Lille. The club currently lie in 3rd position, 6 points off the leaders Lyon.
History
Liverpool beat Marseille 2-1 after coming from a goal behind in the first group game in September. Steven Gerrard was on hand to score both Liverpool goals.
But Liverpool will be hoping for a better performance than the last time Marseille visited Anfield in October 2007 when Valbuena’s goal handed the reds a 1-0 defeat.
The only other Anfield clash between the sides was 2004 UEFA Cup game in which the honours were shared 1-1 before the reds won 2-1 in Marseille.
Third time lucky for Liverpool?
Betting
Liverpool 4/9
Draw 3/1
Marseille 7/1
Paddy Power are offering an impressive free £20 bet when you place a £10 bet. Bargain! The offer is here.
Our prediction is a 2-0 reds win.
TV
The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports 2 in the UK.
Opposition Links
Official Marseille Website (English)
Marseille Football Shirts
Pre Match Discussion
LFC Reds – Marseille Pre Match
