Champions League: why Liverpool vs Benfica should result in Anfield goals

Liverpool in a commanding position

Liverpool might still be trying to get their breath back from Sunday’s pulsating meeting with Manchester City. A 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium showcased why these two teams are the best in Europe right now. Liverpool’s failure to emerge victorious gives City the edge in the Premier League title race, but Jurgen Klopp and his players will be focused on the pursuit of other trophies this week.

Before they renew hostilities with City in an FA Cup semi-final on Saturday, Liverpool will welcome Benfica to Anfield. The English giants are in a commanding position at the midway point of the tie. A 3-1 win in Lisbon leaves the Reds with one foot in the last four. Our traders price Benfica at a huge 48 to progress to the next round.

Liverpool did not have everything their own way in the first leg, but their superior quality ultimately made the difference. They can expect another comfortable evening at Anfield, where they should again prove too strong. The home team may well win both halves – available at 1.83.

Diaz in line to start… and score

There was much speculation about which Liverpool forwards would get the nod for the trip to the Etihad Stadium; in the end Klopp went for Diogo Jota, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah. He is likely to freshen things up here, with Luis Diaz set to feature from the first whistle after a substitute appearance at the weekend.

The Colombia international has made a brilliant start to life at Liverpool. He is sharp, speedy and skilful. He also has an eye for goal, having already scored three times for his new club.

It is a distinct possibility that Diaz will be given 90 minutes on Wednesday, so 2.32 on the former Porto man to score anytime looks like a good option.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp will be expecting his side to progress to the semi-finals on Wednesday night

Benfica can find the net again

Benfica scored early in the second half in the first leg and put Liverpool under real pressure over the next 20 minutes. They will fancy their chances of finding the net in the return fixture too, particularly after an accomplished display in a 3-1 triumph over B–SAD at the weekend.

Benfica possess plenty of threat in the final third. Darwin Nunez is their chief goal-getter, but the likes of Everton, Roman Yaremchuk and Rafa Silva are also capable of posing danger to opposition backlines.

If Liverpool are able to extend their aggregate advantage within the first hour, they may start to rest some key players in the final 30 minutes. Their defending might also become a little less focused, giving Benfica the chance to steal in. Liverpool and both teams to score looks attractive at 2.48.

Recommended bets

Liverpool/Liverpool @ 1.83

Diaz anytime @ 2.32

Liverpool/BTTS @ 2.48