3 Real Madrid players who could shine against Liverpool

Vinicius Junior

In the build up to the game Jurgen Klopp declared Vinicius a ‘Real Madrid legend’, already at the age of 22. This is a reflection of how highly Liverpool rate the speedy winger and rightfully so.

The Brazilian winger has consistently caused problems for the Reds. He was integrated into the first team on the back of the triumph in Kyiv. Since then the two giants have locked horns thrice. Out of the 4 goals scored by Real Madrid during those games, 3 have been scored by Vini.

Or to put it in other words, Los Blancos have won twice when Vini scored and played out a goalless draw when he didn’t get on the scoresheet.

The Brazilian had a disappointing World Cup and on return seemed off the pace for a while. It felt like the treatment he was receiving from opposition fans and the tough tackling from the opposition players on the pitch, was getting the better of him. But in recent weeks, he seems to be back to his best once again.

Having won the Golden Ball at the recently concluded Club World Cup and being consistently amongst the goals, he should be in a perfect mind-set coming to Anfield. If Vini is in his element, it’ll allow Karim Benzema to roam freely and get into more goal scoring positions.

Karim Benzema

There can be tactics, formations, analysis or emphasis on statistics but the only stat that matters at the end of the game is the number of goals scored by both teams. And when in comes to scoring goals, who better than the current Ballon d’Or holder.

Having won the prestigious award, Benzema will be very content. But truth be told he is yet to show his best this season. Of course, picking up injuries constantly has not helped in this regard. But the Frenchman seems to be approaching some consistency once again.

Shockingly though, the man that was top scorer in the Champions League last season is yet to score this time around. The entire group stage has come and gone without the Frenchman hitting the target. Breaking the duck will be high on agenda for Benzema against Liverpool.

Over the years, Benzema has proved himself to be a big game player. He has won so many games for other Real Madrid captains. So, when the time comes for him to wear the armband himself and lead the team in a blockbuster match-up, he should be up and running.