Mansion Sports – A monumental clash returns to the UEFA Champions League 2025/2026 as Liverpool host Real Madrid at Anfield on Matchday 4 of the league phase. The high-stakes encounter is scheduled for Tuesday, 4 November 2025, at 20:00 local time.

These two European powerhouses are no strangers on the continental stage. Every meeting between them has produced unforgettable drama, raw emotion, and moments that have defined eras. 

This time, the spotlight falls on the managerial duel between Arne Slot and Xabi Alonso—two ambitious tacticians renowned for their bold, attacking philosophies.

For Alonso, the match carries a deep personal significance. He returns to Anfield, where his playing career flourished as one of Europe’s finest midfielders, but now as the manager of a Real Madrid side in unstoppable form. 

Meanwhile, Slot and his Liverpool squad aim to defend their European fortress under the iconic floodlights of Anfield.

Team Conditions Ahead of the Clash

Liverpool

Liverpool enter this crucial fixture under notable pressure following a series of inconsistent performances in domestic competition. 

However, a recent 2-0 victory over Aston Villa has eased some of the scrutiny surrounding Arne Slot and provided a timely boost before this heavyweight encounter.

Signs of revival have begun to emerge, highlighted by Mohamed Salah’s 250th goal for the club—an emphatic reminder of his enduring prowess in front of goal. 

Additionally, Ryan Gravenberch’s return has brought dynamism to Liverpool’s midfield, reenergizing the team’s fluid, high-tempo style.

Their 5-1 demolition of Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League reinforced their confidence, though inconsistency remains a lingering concern following a loss to Galatasaray and a narrow win over Atletico Madrid. 

Despite that, Anfield continues to be an intimidating venue. The Reds have won 15 consecutive home games in the group or league phase of the Champions League, underscoring the fortress-like aura of their iconic ground.

Real Madrid

For Xabi Alonso, this is far more than a quest for three points. Returning to Anfield as Real Madrid’s head coach evokes nostalgia and emotion, yet his mission remains rooted in continuing the club’s imperious European form.

Since succeeding Carlo Ancelotti, Alonso has transformed Los Blancos into a ruthlessly efficient and tactically cohesive force. 

The Spanish giants arrive in England with a perfect record from their first three European fixtures, having dispatched Marseille, Kairat, and Juventus with authority. Domestically, they sit atop La Liga following a 4-0 demolition of Valencia last weekend.

Real Madrid’s season has been near flawless, boasting 13 wins from 14 matches across all competitions, with their only defeat coming in the fiercely contested Madrid Derby against Atletico. 

Despite winning just twice in their last nine encounters with English clubs, Real’s Champions League pedigree and mental resilience remain unmatched.

Liverpool, however, broke their long-standing hoodoo against Madrid last season with a 2-0 victory at Anfield—ending an eight-game winless streak against the Spanish champions. 

Arne Slot will hope history repeats itself, though this time Madrid arrive with a younger, faster, and more unpredictable squad.

Predicted Lineups for Liverpool vs Real Madrid 2025

Liverpool (4-2-3-1)

Liverpool receive a boost with the return of Ryan Gravenberch from an ankle injury. However, several key players remain doubtful, including Alexander Isak and Curtis Jones, who are nursing thigh issues. 

Alisson Becker, Giovanni Leoni, and Jeremie Frimpong are confirmed absentees due to injury. Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez are expected to start on the bench following Slot’s successful rotation in the previous fixture.

Real Madrid (4-2-3-1)

Real Madrid arrive with an almost full-strength squad. Xabi Alonso is expected to maintain his offensive 4-2-3-1 formation, blending youthful energy with world-class experience. 

Trent Alexander-Arnold, now wearing the white of Madrid, will face his former club at Anfield for the first time, while Kylian Mbappe remains the focal point of Madrid’s attack.

A Clash Beyond Rivalry

The Liverpool vs Real Madrid 2025 encounter at Anfield represents more than just another Champions League fixture—it is a tactical showcase between two forward-thinking managers unafraid to take risks. 

Liverpool will aim to preserve their proud home record, while Real Madrid seek to extend their flawless European campaign.

With elite talent on both sides and a storied rivalry rich in emotion and legacy, this match promises to deliver another unforgettable chapter in the history of European football. 

Anfield will once again echo with intensity as two footballing giants collide under the bright lights of the Champions League stage.