Champions League: Klopp's quadruple dream faces stern Spanish test

Liverpool can take step closer to final

Liverpool are doing all they can to keep their quadruple dream alive. In the eight days after they booked their place in the final of the FA Cup, the Reds beat both of their local rivals by an aggregate scoreline of 6-0. As such they remain just a point behind Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table.

Liverpool demolished Manchester United last midweek, but they had to work much harder for the victory over Everton on Sunday. Frank Lampard’s side made life difficult for the hosts at Anfield, but Liverpool’s class ultimately told as Jurgen Klopp’s attacking changes paid off in the second half.

Anthony Gordon was a thorn in Liverpool’s side, but the Reds conceded few clear-cut opportunities of note. They have kept a clean sheet in four of their last six home games in all competitions, and could win to nil again on Wednesday – that outcome is priced at 2.06.

Villarreal should not be underestimated

That is not to say Liverpool will be in for an easy evening. Villarreal have already pulled off two upsets in this competition, beating Juventus in the round of 16, and Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals.

Unai Emery is a master at knockout football. He has won the Europa League four times and is now just two games away from reaching the Champions League final, which would be a magnificent achievement when you consider the size of the club he is managing.

Everton successfully shut Liverpool out in the first half on Sunday. If anything, Villarreal will be even better organised when they head to Anfield. The abolition of the away goals rule has reduced the incentive for visiting sides to attack, so Emery’s side will be content to sit deep and disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm, particularly in the first half.

In that light, under 0.5 goals in the opening 45 minutes looks extremely attractive at 3.65.

Liverpool skipper Virgil van Dijk has been in imperious form, helping his side keep four clean sheets in their last six home games

Mane can continue excellent form

Sadio Mane is currently Klopp’s first choice No.9. We have grown so accustomed to seeing the Senegal international operate from the left in recent years, but he is playing brilliantly through the middle.

Mane might have been taken off as Liverpool sought the opening goal against Everton, but he will be back in the starting XI when Villarreal come to town.

The former Southampton star has scored five goals in his last six appearances in all competitions, including three against Manchester City. Mane is the man for the big occasion and his central role means he will get chances on Wednesday night.

Liverpool will have to be patient, but Mane can get on the scoresheet again – he is available at 2.24 to do so anytime.

Recommended bets

Liverpool to nil @ 2.06

Under 0.5 goals first half @ 3.65

Mane anytime @ 2.24