Liverpool will be aiming to arrest their recent dip in form when they journey to France for a crucial Champions League encounter against Marseille on Wednesday evening. The Reds travel to the Orange Velodrome needing a positive result to bolster their chances of securing automatic qualification for the competition's last sixteen.
Match Preview: High Stakes in Southern France
Under the management of Arne Slot, Liverpool currently find themselves just outside the top eight qualification spots on goal difference as Gameweek 7 commences. Despite accumulating twelve points from a campaign that has included notable victories against European giants such as Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, and Inter Milan, their form has been inconsistent.
The Merseyside club arrives in Marseille on the back of a disappointing 1-1 Premier League draw with Burnley. Furthermore, their European journey this season has been marred by surprising defeats to Galatasaray and PSV Eindhoven, highlighting vulnerabilities that Slot will be desperate to address.
In contrast, Marseille are experiencing a significant resurgence under the guidance of Roberto De Zerbi. The French side has already secured nine points in the competition and enters this fixture in formidable form. They have triumphed in their last two European outings against Union Saint-Gilloise and Newcastle United, while also boasting the most potent attack in Ligue 1 this season.
With both teams fiercely ambitious for a top-eight finish, this clash at the iconic Orange Velodrome is anticipated to be a thrilling, end-to-end contest between two sides renowned for their attacking philosophies.
How to Watch Marseille vs Liverpool
TV Channel and Streaming Details
For viewers in the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1. Kick-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM GMT on Wednesday, January 21.
Supporters can also stream the action live via the Discovery+ platform, provided they have an active subscription to the TNT Sports package. This service is additionally accessible through the Amazon Prime Video app, offering flexible viewing options.
Free Viewing and Highlights
Key moments from the match will be posted on the official FootballOnTNT X account. Comprehensive highlights will be uploaded to the TNT Sports Football YouTube channel later in the evening.
Fans can listen to free live audio commentary through the official Liverpool FC app or via the Match Centre on the club's official website. Extended highlights will be made available to All Red Video members from midnight. New subscribers often have the opportunity to access this content through a one-month free trial.
Team News and Injury Updates
Liverpool Squad Status
Liverpool may receive a significant boost with the potential return of Mohamed Salah following his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations. However, a final decision on his involvement will be a late call for manager Arne Slot.
The Reds will definitely be without Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni, both sidelined with knee injuries, as well as Alexander Isak who is recovering from a leg issue. On a positive note, Slot otherwise has a fit squad at his disposal. Andy Robertson and Alexis Mac Allister are both pushing for starting roles after being rested during the weekend's Premier League fixture.
Marseille Squad Status
Marseille are likely to be without Moroccan defender Nayef Aguerd, who is still recovering from his AFCON exertions. Derek Cornelius and Ruben Blanco remain in the treatment room with muscle and knee problems respectively.
Bilal Nadir is considered a doubt after being forced off in a recent match against Angers. His potential absence could create an opportunity for former Premier League midfielders Angel Gomes or Matt O'Riley to feature from the start. In attack, the experienced Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, formerly of Arsenal, is expected to partner the in-form Mason Greenwood.
Historical Context and Head-to-Head Record
This fixture marks the first competitive meeting between these two European heavyweights since the 2008/09 Champions League group stage. During that campaign, Rafael Benitez's Liverpool secured a memorable double over the French side, winning 2-1 at the Velodrome and 1-0 at Anfield.
The clubs also clashed in the 2007/08 season, a tie remembered for Marseille's famous 1-0 victory at Anfield. Liverpool responded emphatically in the return leg, securing a comprehensive 4-0 win to progress in the competition.
Wednesday's encounter promises to add another compelling chapter to this intermittent but historically significant European rivalry.
