Rafael Benitez outlines key areas where Real Madrid vs Liverpool could be decided

Former Liverpool and Real Madrid manager, Rafael Benitez has given his verdict on the parameters that could decide the UEFA Champions League tie between both sides at Anfield on Tuesday night.

The Reds welcome the reigning champions to Anfield in the first leg of their round of 16 clash. In a repeat of last year’s final, Jurgen Klopp and co will hope to repay Los Blancos in kind.

Benitez knows a thing or two about beating Real, having led Liverpool to a 5-0 win on aggregate over Real during his time at Anfield. The 4-0 win against the Spaniards at home that season was one of Liverpool’s finest-ever performances under Benitez.

According to The Daily Mail, Benitez believes the tussle between Trent Alexander-Arnold and Vinicius Jr could be a major difference maker in the tie. That is to be expected given that the Liverpool ace lost his Real Madrid counterpart for the winner in last season’s final in Paris.

Trent is excellent going forward but tends to be naive defensively. He will do well not to avoid any defensive responsibilities and keep a tight leash on the Real attackers. Having seen what he can do in Paris, Liverpool cannot afford Vinicus an inch of space, especially not at the far post.

Another spot of bother for Liverpool will be their midfield. With Thiago Alcantara out, Klopp will need his veterans namely Jordan Henderson and Fabinho to step up. Stefan Bajcetic has been excellent but the youngster should be made to shoulder the brunt of the responsibility in the middle of the park.

Benitez expects Liverpool to up their game and match Real in the middle of the park. While we certainly have the players, a lot will depend on whether they turn up on the night.

“Liverpool will be right up for the challenge in the middle of the park tonight — expect their midfield three to cover lots of ground.”

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Despite form, Anfield has a magical power that makes life difficult for visiting teams. The arena has become a fortress of sorts under Jurgen Klopp and the German will need to channel it to his advantage on the night.

Benitez had his moment under the sun against Real in 2009. 14 years on, it remains to be seen if Klopp can break his hoodoo against the same side.