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Liverpool are set to host Bayer Leverkusen in matchday 4 of the newly-formatted UEFA Champions League. November 5 will be the date Arne Slot’s Reds meet Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen in the first clash between these two soccer giants since 2005. Liverpool are perfect through their first 3 matches in the Champions League, while Leverkusen are just a couple points off. Continue reading for a Liverpool vs Leverkusen breakdown and explore stats and a free expert betting prediction.
- UEFA Champions League
- Matchday Four
- Liverpool FC vs Bayer 04 Leverkusen
- Tuesday, November 5, 2024, 3 PM EST
- Paramount+
Liverpool vs Leverkusen Betting Odds
Liverpool are big favorites to continue their winning streak in European competition. The Reds are priced at (-154) to get the job done in 90 minutes, while a draw is lined at (+340). Sportsbooks are not keen on Leverkusen’s chances of getting a win on the road. The Bundesliga champions are (+360) to defeat Liverpool.
| Champions League |  |  |  |
| Liverpool | -154 | -154 | -155 |
| Leverkusen | +350 | +350 | +360 |
| Draw | +320 | +320 | +340 |
Want to better understand the 3-way moneyline (1X2) market? See our soccer betting tips and learn about UEFA Champions League betting strategy.
Liverpool Not Missing a Beat After Managerial Swap
As promised, Jurgen Klopp retired at the end of the 2023–24 season, leaving Liverpool under new managerial leadership. Because of Manchester City’s dominance, his stint was not as successful as it may have been, but he did bring the city Champions League and Premier League championships. Although there was still doubt surrounding Klopp’s resignation, Arne Slot’s appointment signaled Liverpool’s transition to a new era.
Slot hails from Feyenoord, a Dutch team that has been quite successful with him in recent years. Although Klopp and Slot both enjoy strong pressing strategies, Klopp’s heavy metal approach is far more conservative than “Slot-ball.” The Reds are suddenly playing with less tenacity when leading. For instance, Liverpool kept things low-key as they dominated to a 2-0 Champions League victory over Bologna. That stands in stark contrast to Klopp’s relentless counterattacks, which only appeared to pick up speed as the game went on.
Liverpool has risen to the top of the English table despite their slower style of play. With 22 points, Liverpool sits 2nd on the table, just a point behind Manchester City. Nottingham Forest, who managed to hold on for their first victory at Anfield in more than 50 years, is the only team to beat them this season. Slot needs to exercise caution right now since rivals will want to copy Nuno Espirito Santo’s winning strategy, one defined by a low defensive block and aggressive breaks on the counter.
Leverkusen Off Pace from 2023-24 But Still in Good Form
Leverkusen are off to a slower start than last season with just 4 wins through 8 games in the Bundesliga. Part of that demise feels somewhat natural, as if Leverkusen were riding a magic carpet last year that is losing its touch. Leipzig have leapfrogged Leverkusen for a tie with Bayern at the top, as the two have gone unbeaten to start the campaign. Leverkusen’s lone defeat was a home loss to Leipzig, 3-2.
Now winners of just one of their last four matches, there is growing concern this slump is not just temporary. But it is not just on the pitch where they are beginning to slip, but off as well. Phenom Florian Wirtz has long been connected to a move to Bayern Munich, and pundits are predicting a sale is more of a matter of not if, but when. Whether Wirtz does indeed depart for Leverkusen’s direct rival may come down to the interest level of Real Madrid and Manchester City, among other elite clubs who may show interest in the winger.
Arguably Leverkusen’s most disappointing result was a 2-2 draw against Holstein Kiel at home. Bayer Leverkusen took a 2-0 lead in the first half only to succumb to two unanswered goals in the second frame. Losing a multiple-goal lead like that at home against a relegation candidate is certainly concerning for the Bundesliga hopefuls.
Could Xabi Alonso go to Real Madrid sooner than expected? That is another worry for Leverkusen, who will likely have their current manager until the end of the season at best. Recently anointed Coach of the Year Carlo Ancelotti is suddenly in dire straits with Real’s executive board after losing 4-0 to Barcelona in El Clasico. Xabi has long been linked with Real Madrid, and an appointment there is any manager’s dream.
Liverpool vs Leverkusen Betting Prediction
Liverpool matches have consistently underperformed their betting totals this season, and I don’t expect that to change in a midweek clash with Leverkusen. The visitors are arguably the best in the world in build-up and rarely make mistakes in possession. And with Liverpool playing a more conservative offensive approach, a more passive game could be in store.
Both sides will look to remain undefeated in Champions League play. But Leverkusen’s scoring has been down in recent weeks. An away tie with Liverpool may force a shift in tactics from Xabi Alonso. Nottingham Forest won at Anfield with an extremely defensive style of play. Perhaps Xabi takes a peek at that playbook and goes for a similar gameplan.
BetUS is offering the under on a flat total of 3 goals at (+112). This is a great price compared to most top online sportsbooks. I will recommend a play in this direction for a half unit.
Odds are accurate at time of writing but subject to change.
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