Europa League: Liverpool vs Sparta Prague Live
Preview: Liverpool vs Sparta Prague
Liverpool vs Sparta Prague is scheduled to take place at Anfield on Thursday at 8:00pm as the reds are expected to advance to the quarter-finals of the Europa League. Despite winning 5-1 in the previous game, the scoreline did not fully reflect the match’s events at the Epet Arena.
The reds are in a strong position to secure a place in the Europa League quarter-finals after defeating Sparta 5-1 in the first leg. Manager Jürgen Klopp has the opportunity to rest key players or give playing time to those who need it, following their recent draw with Manchester City. Klopp may choose to give young players a chance in European competition, which could benefit the team later on. The expectation is for the reds to progress, given their strong track record of advancing in UEFA knockout ties after winning the first leg away from home.
Anfield has witnessed many impressive European comebacks, but they have typically been for the home team. Sparta has struggled in their previous visits to England, with only one win in twelve matches dating back to 1983. Their upcoming match against Liverpool presents a daunting challenge, as they will need to score goals to have any chance of success. In their recent game against Viktoria Plzeň, Sparta Prague suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat, which may have affected their confidence ahead of facing Liverpool at Anfield.
Head-to-head
The reds and Sparta Prague faced off in the round of 32 of the UEFA Europa League during the 2001/02 season, with Liverpool winning 1-0 on aggregate. In the current season’s round of 16, Liverpool comfortably defeated Sparta Prague in the first leg by scoring five goals in Prague a week ago.
Prediction
Sparta Prague faces a tough task as they head to Britain with a four-goal deficit to overcome. Their missed chances in the first leg proved costly, and it is unlikely they will have as many scoring opportunities against Liverpool’s strong defense at Anfield. Despite a potentially tired home team, they are expected to give chances to young players against a Sparta team lacking confidence. Another comfortable victory and a spot in the quarter-finals seem likely for Klopp’s team.
