Liverpool will look to maintain their flawless Champions League record when they travel to Istanbul on Wednesday to face a struggling Fenerbahce side at the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium.

The visitors have won all three of their league-phase matches so far, while Fenerbahce remain without a victory and are already under pressure to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.

Verdict: Away win

Best odds: 11/20

Bookmaker: 1xBet

Fenerbahce

Fenerbahce head into this fixture in a period of uncertainty.

Former Liverpool favourite Dirk Kuyt is currently overseeing the team on an interim basis following Ismail Kartal’s departure, but the former Dutch international has yet to enjoy a winning start to life in the dugout. A 2-1 defeat against Goztepe at the weekend followed a loss to Galatasaray, extending a disappointing run of results.

European form has also been underwhelming. The Turkish side drew with Roma and Slavia Prague before suffering a humiliating 6-0 defeat away to Aston Villa, leaving them with just two points from three games.

Despite those struggles, home form offers some encouragement. Fenerbahce have lost only once in their last five matches in Istanbul and will hope the hostile atmosphere generated by their supporters can unsettle Liverpool.

Team News

There are concerns in defence, however. Jayden Oosterwolde and Kojo Peprah Oppong are unavailable, while Nathan Ake faces a race against time to be fit.

Further forward, Romelu Lukaku is expected to lead the line, supported by Mason Greenwood, Irfan Can Kahveci and Oguz Aydin.

Liverpool

Liverpool arrive in Turkey looking to respond immediately after a disappointing setback against Arsenal.

Andoni Iraola’s side saw a five-match winning streak come to an end when the Gunners secured a 1-0 victory at Anfield, but the broader picture remains overwhelmingly positive. The Reds have enjoyed an impressive start under their new manager and remain among the strongest teams in this season’s Champions League.

Victories over Atletico Madrid, LASK Linz and Villarreal have left Liverpool with a perfect nine-point haul from three matches and sitting among the leading teams in the competition.

Away form has been particularly impressive. Liverpool remain unbeaten on their travels this season and have already demonstrated their ability to win in difficult environments.

Team News

The visitors also have some injury concerns. Ryan Gravenberch is unavailable after suffering a heel injury, while Giovanni Leoni, Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong remain sidelined.

Alexander Isak could be rested after a busy schedule, potentially opening the door for Lewis Koumas to start in attack. Ronald Araujo is again expected to continue at right-back.

Key Factors to Consider

• Liverpool have won all three of their Champions League matches.
• Fenerbahce are still searching for their first victory in the competition.
• The Turkish side have conceded nine goals in their last two European fixtures.
• Liverpool remain unbeaten away from home this season.
• Dirk Kuyt is facing his former club as interim Fenerbahce manager.
• The Reds have scored 13 goals across their last three Champions League games.

Conclusion

The atmosphere in Istanbul should make life uncomfortable for Liverpool, and Fenerbahce are likely to play with greater intensity than recent results suggest.

However, the difference in form and quality between the sides is difficult to ignore. Liverpool have looked confident and effective in Europe, while Fenerbahce continue to struggle defensively and have yet to produce a convincing Champions League performance.

The hosts should create opportunities in front of their own supporters, but Liverpool’s superior attacking options and overall structure ought to prove decisive.