Genk fought out a 0-0 draw against Napoli in the previous round, and will likely be happy to achieve something similar here. A win would be something of a shock, however, as Genk has played 14 matches in the Champions League (CL) group stage without a win - the most of any participating side. Overall though, they have managed to score at least one goal in 30 of their last 32 European matches.
Indeed, they can hardly be called pushovers, as the draw against Napoli in the last round was their fourth straight home draw in the CL group stage. Nine of their 14 competitive matches this season have featured at least three goals, as have six of their seven wins.
After a defeat and a shaky win in the first two rounds, the pressure is on for Liverpool here. Although big favorites, they need to break a trend that has seen them win just one of their last ten CL group stage away matches (D3, L6).
A trip to Belgium might be just what the doctor ordered, as Liverpool have a historical record of W10, D2, L1, against Belgian sides in European competitions. Overall, they’ve been decent away from home this season in all competitions (W5, D1, L1), although only one of their last five away matches has featured over 2.5 goals.
Players to watch: Paul Onuachu (GEN) has four goals in his last four appearances for Genk, three of which arrived in the 75th minute or later. Meanwhile, Sadio Mané’s (LIV) last six competitive goals have come in the first half.
Stat attack: Genk is unbeaten in six CL home matches (W2, D4 - includes qualifiers).
Liverpool has scored two goals or more in eight of their last 11 competitive matches.
Liverpool has scored the last goal in three straight away matches, all coming in the final 30 minutes of the match.
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