Liverpool vs Real Madrid tactics: Salah’s revenge as Benzema faces Van Dijk test in Champions League final

Liverpool and Real Madrid on Saturday meet in Paris in the Champions League final.

It’s a re-run of the 2018 final, which the Spanish giant ran out winners thanks for Gareth Bale and a helping hand from Loris Karius.

Much has changed in four years, here’s how we see the game playing out.

The power of belief

No two teams identify themselves so closely with this trophy as Liverpool and Real Madrid. This is the battle between the two kings of Europe, who so often have felt like it is their destiny to wear the crown.

Madrid are absolutely in that mode this season, and it will be fascinating to see what effect that has on the final. The Spanish giants have had to come back from perilous situations against PSG, Chelsea and Manchester City in the knockout stages.

They are convinced it is their year, meaning Liverpool will not be able to feel comfortable at any point until the final whistle.

Mo’s revenge mission

Mohamed Salah was cruelly taken out of the 2018 final by Sergio Ramos, so there are scores for the Egyptian to settle.

While Madrid may have to pay special attention to the brilliant striker, they will be aware of threats right across the front for Liverpool in the form of Sadio Mane and Luis Diaz.

But it is Salah who would love to strike the decisive blow and fully erase the memories of that painful defeat.

Beware big Ben

Liverpool need no warning about where Madrid’s main danger lies. Karim Benzema has felt like he is on a one-man mission to win a 14th European Cup for the Spanish giants.

He has crushed the dreams of PSG, Chelsea and City, and is arguably the finest striker in Europe this season. His movement is so intelligent as he drops deep or drifts out wide, while his finishing is absolutely devastating.

Virgil van Dijk will have to be at his very best to keep him quiet.