Back in March 2009, Liverpool enjoyed one of their most memorable nights as they demolished Real Madrid 4-0 to reach the Champions League quarter-finals. Since that stunning victory, however, the Reds have struggled to beat the Spanish giants, failing to win any of their last eight encounters. But now, as they prepare to face Real Madrid at Anfield on Wednesday, Liverpool may feel this is their best chance in years to break that long winless streak.

Under the leadership of Arne Slot, who took over from Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool has been in stellar form. With 16 wins, one draw, and just one loss this season, Slot’s arrival has been a breath of fresh air. The Reds are currently top of the Premier League and have also dominated the Champions League group stage, winning all four matches with an impressive goal difference of 10-1.

In contrast, Real Madrid has had a mixed start to their campaign. Despite winning both La Liga and the Champions League last season, Carlo Ancelotti’s side currently sits second in Spain’s domestic league and struggled in the Champions League group phase, especially with an unexpected 1-0 loss away to Lille. While Real Madrid has been solid at home, with victories over Stuttgart and Borussia Dortmund, their away form is underwhelming.

One of the biggest talking points surrounding Real Madrid this season is the form of Kylian Mbappe, who arrived from Paris Saint-Germain with high expectations. Although he has scored eight goals in 16 appearances for Los Blancos, he has struggled in the Champions League, managing only one goal in Europe so far. His struggles have been linked to a change in position, as Ancelotti has moved him from his familiar left-wing role to a central striker position, a shift that has yet to yield the expected results.

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Moreover, Jude Bellingham, who made an explosive start to his Real Madrid career last season, has yet to regain his top form this year. Despite scoring in his last two matches, Bellingham’s early-season struggles have been attributed to both injury setbacks and the defensive duties he has been assigned in midfield. This leaves Real Madrid reliant on their star forward, Vinicius Jr., who has been in great form, scoring 12 goals in 16 appearances. However, Liverpool fans will be relieved that Vinicius Jr. will miss the upcoming game due to injury, having been a key player in Real Madrid’s recent successes against the Reds.

For Ancelotti, the pressure is mounting. After a series of disappointing defeats, including losses to Barcelona and AC Milan, there were rumors about his job security. However, the Italian manager has maintained that he has solved the team’s issues, with recent back-to-back wins providing a glimmer of hope. A victory at Anfield would go a long way in reaffirming his position and silencing the doubters.

As Liverpool hosts Real Madrid on Wednesday, the combination of the Reds’ strong form, Real Madrid’s early-season struggles, and key absences for the Spanish side might give Liverpool their best opportunity in years to end their 15-year winless run against the European giants.