Liverpool vs AS Roma: 5 Key battles that could decide the outcome

#1 Jurgen Klopp vs Eusebio Di Francesco

Jurgen Klopp

Liverpool are expected to start with a 4-3-3 formation and they'll be hoping for a performance that will knock out Roma in the first leg itself. However, it's dangerous to expect too much after that whirlwind first leg against Manchester City.

Jurgen Klopp is known for his high pressing strategies and the amount of freedom he gives to his attacking players. A Klopp side always press the ball high up the field and stop the opposing defence from playing the ball to the midfield.

We can say that Liverpool will be favourites for this tie, but Klopp won't underestimate Roma after their performance against Barcelona.

Di Francesco, on the other hand, has surpassed all expectations, his team has done things no one expected them to do. The tactical masterclass in the second leg against Barcelona is an example of his Di Francesco's potential. He played a 4-3-3 in the first leg against Barcelona but in the second leg, he shifted to a 3-5-2 (which played as a 3-4-3).

The midfield of Nainggolan, Strootman and De Rossi contained the ball really well, and this helped in nullifying the threat which was posed by Leo Messi. He would be looking to use Edin Dzeko as a key player to impose a threat on the Liverpool defence because of his qualities in set-piece situations and ability to hold up play.

Will Klopp and his team go to the Champions League final or will the Giallorossi stop their march? The encounter over the two legs will determine who will qualify for the final of the Champions League.