Champions League final: Paul Merson makes Liverpool vs. Real Madrid prediction | Soccer

After lifting the FA Cup and Carabao Cup trophies, Jurgen Klopp’s side can end their impressive season on Saturday in Paris on a high.

Their opponents, La Liga champions Madrid, have beaten Manchester City, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain on their way to the final, in a series of incredible comebacks.

But Merson has predicted a 2-1 win for Liverpool against the 13-time Champions League winners on Saturday.

“Considering all the comebacks Real Madrid have made in Europe this season, it’s probably a bold claim, but the team that scores first will win this game,” Merson told Sportskeeda.

“In terms of refereeing, Ancelotti’s team has a lot of experience in competition and could use all the tricks in the book to emerge victorious.

“The 2022 Ballon d’Or race is another fascinating subplot to the UEFA Champions League final in Paris, which will all feature Karim Benzema, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah in the game.

“If I had to pick one, I would go for the Real Madrid man as he has scored from absolutely nothing this season. The goal against Manchester City wasn’t even half a chance, but he didn’t give the keeper a chance. Coming to his penalty, who will attempt a Panenka in a UEFA Champions League semi-final when the odds are stacked against you?

“Real Madrid rely on Benzema a lot more than Liverpool rely on Salah, so I think he should get his hands on the coveted award from today’s perspective. Of course the outcome of the final will play a big role in this debate, but I think so at this point.

“Predicting a game like this is incredibly difficult but I’m aiming for a 2-1 win for Liverpool. They’ve had a tough couple of weeks but if all their players are fully fit I think they have what it takes to get the job done.

“Klopp and company missed the Premier League title by a point but it will be an incredible achievement if they end the season with the Carabao Cup, FA Cup and UEFA Champions League.”

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