Gary Neville predicts Liverpool clash against Real Madrid this week

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Gary Neville has told his Sky Sports podcast that he does not expect Liverpool to produce a comeback against Real Madrid this week, having suffered a 3-1 defeat in Spain last week – stating a lack of fans at Anfield will hinder their chances.

Liverpool earned a crucial three points on Saturday afternoon, their third win in a row in the Premier League. Coming from behind, Mo Salah and an injury-time strike from Trent Alexander-Arnold cancelled out Ollie Watkins’ opener.

However, in Europe, it is not such a good story. The Reds are preparing for what will be an almighty uphill battle against Zinedine Zidane’s Real Madrid – having suffered a 3-1 loss. Madrid have gone 13 unbeaten, winning 11 in all competitions.

Liverpool need to win by two or more goals without conceding. A 3-1 win will take them into extra-time, while they will have to win by three if Real Madrid score two. Neville thinks it is a tall order and expects Liverpool to be knocked out on Wednesday.

“Poor in Madrid, in mid-week. Really poor. Left themselves a lot to do and I’m not sure they’ve got it in them to do it. At Anfield, they’ve not been great. Crowd in, different story. I think they’re going to go out of the Champions League – I might be wrong.”

TBR’s view – Liverpool desperately need to score first

It needs to come early on, too. The Reds need to get their noses ahead on the night and that not only halves the required deficit, but it immediately increases the nerves on Real Madrid. A goal inside the first 20 minutes gives Liverpool hope.

But the longer Real Madrid go without conceding at Anfield this week, then the more confidence they will have. Liverpool need to take the game by the scruff of the neck if they are to stand any chance. Neville, though, is probably right.