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Liverpool seek third European win against Villarreal at Anfield

Summarised from 5 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 19:39 · Archive

Liverpool face Villarreal in a Champions League match at Anfield on Tuesday night, seeking a third consecutive European victory.

Liverpool face Villarreal in a Champions League fixture at Anfield on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, with an 8pm BST kick-off. The Reds are seeking a third consecutive European victory after wins over Atletico Madrid and LASK. They are among nine teams to have won both their opening matches in the competition. Villarreal, by contrast, have one win and one defeat so far.

Liverpool are without two key players for the match. Dominik Szoboszlai and Jeremie Frimpong were both injured during Saturday's 2-1 away win against Brentford. Frimpong is expected to be sidelined for several weeks, whilst Szoboszlai's injury is considered less serious.

Manager Andoni Iraola confirmed at the pre-match press conference that he would rotate his squad given the demanding schedule. He said: 'We have had two important wins but we cannot stop. There is a very good team in front of us. It's the fourth game in ten days. Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola have played every minute of those games so far, so we have to be sensible.'

Ryan Gravenberch returns to midfield after missing the Brentford match through suspension and will partner Alexis Mac Allister. Cody Gakpo makes a comeback on the left flank after injury. Ronald Araujo, the on-loan defender from Barcelona, starts at right-back. Lewis Koumas and Rio Ngumoha complete the front three alongside Gakpo. Trey Nyoni makes a surprise start in midfield.

Villarreal, managed by Iñigo Pérez, have struggled domestically with just two wins from nine league games. They were held to a goalless draw at the weekend by Elche. However, they did record a 3-1 victory over Napoli in Europe, with forward Alberto Moleiro missing a number of chances in that match.

In the UK, the match will be broadcast live on Amazon Prime Video. Coverage begins at 6.30pm with pre-match analysis from pundits including Daniel Sturridge, Robbie Fowler and Rafael Benítez, presented by Gabby Logan. Viewers can watch on television through a streaming stick, or stream via smartphone, tablet or laptop using the Amazon Prime Video app or website. Those not already subscribed can sign up for a 30-day free trial to watch the match for free.

Liverpool seek third European win against Villarreal at Anfield
Image: Evening Standard

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How it is being reported

In this story: Liverpool · Villarreal · Anfield · Andoni Iraola · Iñigo Pérez · Dominik Szoboszlai · Jeremie Frimpong · Ronald Araujo

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