In a decisive Europa League clash, Liverpool seeks to secure a top-two finish by defeating Toulouse at Stadium Municipal. Liverpool dominated Toulouse in their previous encounter, and they are aiming for a repeat performance.
Match Preview
Toulouse, who qualified for the Europa League after winning the Coupe de France, had a difficult experience in their last encounter with Liverpool, suffering a 5-1 defeat. This loss marked their first in continental competition this season.
Toulouse faces the challenge of securing a top-two finish in Group E to advance further in the competition.
A defeat at the hands of Liverpool and a Union SG win over LASK Linz could relegate them to the Europa Conference League at the worst.
Despite the loss to Liverpool, Toulouse’s earlier results in the group, including a draw with Union SG and a win over LASK Linz, demonstrate their potential.
To avoid slipping down the pecking order, they need a strong performance against Liverpool.
Liverpool, on the other hand, is in an excellent position. They have a 100% record in the Europa League, having beaten LASK Linz and Union SG convincingly.
With a five-point lead over Toulouse and Union SG, they are close to securing a place in the knockout round playoffs.
However, Liverpool’s recent form has been inconsistent, as they faced a draw against Luton over the weekend. Their away performance in France has also been underwhelming in recent years.
But Liverpool’s victory over Toulouse in the previous encounter shows their superiority. They aim to continue their strong start to the Europa League and secure a top-two finish in the group.
Team News
Toulouse continues to miss the services of winger Zakaria Aboukhlal, who is recovering from a knee injury. Oliver Zanden and Denis Genreau are also sidelined.
For Liverpool, Thiago Alcantara is unlikely to return before the New Year due to a hip injury, while Stefan Bajcetic’s calf recovery has no specific timeframe.
Andrew Robertson is on the road to recovery from shoulder surgery. Curtis Jones had a minor fitness issue but is expected to play against Toulouse.
Liverpool is likely to make several changes, including Caoimhin Kelleher, Harvey Elliott, and Luis Diaz.
Predicted Lineups
Toulouse Possible Starting Lineup:
- Restes;
- Desler, Diarra, Nicolaisen, Suazo;
- Sierro, Spierings, Casseres Jr;
- Donnum, Dallinga, Magri
Liverpool Possible Starting Lineup:
- Kelleher;
- Gomez, Matip, Quansah, Tsimikas;
- Elliott, Endo, Gravenberch;
- Doak, Gakpo, Diaz
Prediction: Toulouse 1-3 Liverpool
Liverpool’s strong start in the Europa League is likely to continue, as they aim to secure a top-two finish. Toulouse’s defensive vulnerabilities may prove costly once again.