Alexander Isak's first Liverpool brace came at exactly the right time for Liverpool. He was rested just after the hour mark against Ipswich, and the 9.02 rating he earned in that match fits a start that has already produced 3 Premier League goals in 244 minutes this season. Atletico Madrid arrive at Anfield with that in mind.
Isak's start and Liverpool's supporting cast
The main reason this preview feels different is the shape of Liverpool's attack when Isak is involved. A forward who has already scored 3 league goals in 244 minutes gives them a central threat Atletico cannot ignore, and his first brace in red only strengthens that point.
Cody Gakpo gives the front line another route to goal. He has started the season with one goal and three assists, which keeps Liverpool from leaning on Isak alone.
Liverpool's recent league form is unbeaten in five, but four of those games finished level. That is still better than the mixed run Atletico bring into the tie, with a loss, a draw and two wins across their last five league matches.
Atletico Madrid will not see this as a soft assignment, and they should not. But Liverpool's recent 2-0 win over Ipswich, plus Isak's sharp start and Gakpo's early output, gives them a front line that looks more dangerous than it did a few weeks ago.
Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 2 outlets. How we work →
