Rubin Kazan vs Liverpool: 3 Key Battles
Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool will be facing a tough challenge when they face Rubin Kazan at the Kazan Arena. Liverpool still have not won a game in the group stages of Europa League. Rubin Kazan held Liverpool to a 1-1 draw when the sides met at Anfield. This week Liverpool look more settled and confident but still Kazan will not make the game easy for the reds.
Here are the three key battles that could decide the game:
Mamadou Sakho Vs. Marko Deric
Deric was the Kazan player who equalized against Liverpool at Anfield. The reds took the lead and it was soon levelled by this Ukrainian. Mamadou Sakho and Martin Skrtel had tough times with Deric. This week Lovren might start ahead of Skrtel if that so we cannot predict what kind of performance will Lovren bring out. With that being said, Sakho should be beware of the 32-year-old striker. Sakho’s responsibilities could increase because Milner is expected to be benched that means he could captain the side.
Christian Benteke Vs. Saba Kverkvelia
Liverpool’s in-form striker Christian Benteke is expected to get his first start for Liverpool after returning from injury against Rubin Kazan. The Belgian is known for his aerial threat, but he will have a tough time against this Georgian centre-back. The 23-year-old is 196 cm tall while Benteke is 190 cm. Kverkvelia is known for his strong tackling and aerial duels ability. Benteke will find it difficult to get the better of him, but if Benteke is able to overcome him the whole Liverpool attacking players can find a way to score and that will ensure Liverpool’s win.
Joe Allen Vs. Carlos Eduardo
Joe Allen is expected to start for Liverpool against Rubin Kazan (probably instead of James Milner). Allen has stated in a recent interview that he will prove his worth to Jurgen Klopp and this might be his chance. And he wants to prove his worth in the central midfielder he will need to keep Rubin Kazan’s Carlos Eduardo under control. The versatile midfielder could either start as Kazan’s No.10 or he might start on the wings. Either as a winger or a playmaker, Eduardo is a real threat for Liverpool central midfielders and defenders. He is known for his crossing and passing. He did not have a good game against Liverpool last time, but that doesn’t mean that he is a player not to fear of. If Allen can keep him at bay, the Liverpool defenders will find their job easy and Allen could really prove his worth.
