There's some nice odds on the Liverpool ML (+220 right now).
However, I'm not too sure of how Lyon approach this game. I've seen them play away in Ligue 1, and they seem to be set up to counter through their explosive and skilful presence up front and the pace on the wings. We saw this in the win at Anfield as well.
I haven't seen how they play when the onus is on them to attack as would be in their home games. Does anyone have any input on this? Are they adventurous in their approach or play a patient midfield game, etc.
I'm not too worried about Liverpool's injuries. I've seen this team come across worse situations than this and perform magnificently.
Predicted lineup for Liverpool
Reina; Carragher, Agger, Kyrgiakos, Insua; Mascherano, Lucas; Benayoun, Aquilani, Kuyt; Torres
Is Agger fit for this match. I know Pool have a lengthy injury crisis, but Benitez does know how to play in the CL and a draw here is not a bad thing here. I don't know if they can win in Lyon and Liverpools defense is looking worse every game. But i read somewhere that Benitez has turned his attention towards the CL now, so Liverpool may have a chance here and with Torres upfront anything is possible.
Apparently, Agger had so much trouble with his back that he couldn't sit straight on the flight to Lyon.
But, even if he's half fit - he'll be more useful than what Liverpool have in reserve for defense.
If he's out, a kid from the reserves called Steven Darby will start at RB. Carra and Kyrgiakos at CB.
Alternatively (and less likely), Mascherano could be moved to RB with Aquilani and Lucas playing at CM.
Liverpool are best when there "backs are against the wall" , however the injuries to Gerrard and Torres will makes this very hard on Liverpool, and Lyon are a good outfit, and are at home. Its a risk game, can go either way
This match should be avoided as far as stakes go,tonight's euro matches don't offer up as good opportunities as last nights did.Maybe the Arsenal game and also the Seville match should be looked at for better bets
I actually think a small stake on Pool is worthy here...they may not win this one...but I do like their chances in a DnB situation for a decent stake...most likely scenario is a draw IMHO...but I don't think Lyon will win. Torres makes a world of difference in this lineup...only issue to me is hernia problem for Fernando, how long will he actually play!?!? We'll see what happens...
Can't blame Rafa there. Played the perfect game. Liverpool had the best chances in the game and were very comfortable in defense except for two lapses from 1.5 million man Kyrgiakos. One of those two buried us.
That's what 1.5 million buys you. An absolute clogger in defense. Who's to blame for that?! The Board or Rafa. Rafa wanted to spend some money on a back up defender like Michael Turner but was given 1/10th of the funds instead to look for someone else.
Knives will be out for Rafa in the press regardless but thankfully the people who matter (i.e. the fans) don't think that way as shownby the way the away support were chanting our manager's name after the final whistle.
I'm disappointed that we're all but out of the CL but things really can't get any worse.
Liverpool have a chance, but they need to win their final 2 games and hope Lyon beat Fiore at home. I'm not sure what the rules are on tied 2nd place, but if its goal difference, Liverpool are screwed.
Lyon only need to draw in Florence to put it back in Liverpool's hands. Of course, Liverpool will have to beat Debrecen regardless.
If this happens, it will come down to the last game at Anfield, where Liverpool will have to beat Fiorentina 2-0 or by three clear goals if Fiorentina score.
Not sure if Lyon can get a point at Fiorentina especially now that they've qualified. But then there's the motivation for Lyon is to finish to of the group. So there is a little hope.