Group B of the 2015-2016 UEFA Europa League enters its final games, with all teams having a fighting chance of making it to the knockout stage. This time, we will focus on the second game between Rubin Kazan and Liverpool, following their recent 1-1 draw back in October.
Jürgen Klopp will be looking to win his first European match with the Reds, after collecting wins in the Premier League and in the Capital One Cup last week. Meanwhile, the hosts led by Valeri Chaly aim to keep their unbeaten streak at home, where they have never lost against a Premier League side in three previous games.
Rubin Kazan
The hosts have struggled to find consistency throughout the season, forcing former manager Rinat Bilyaletdinov to step down. Out of their last six matches, Rubin Kazan has won two drawn two more and lost the rest, conceding at least one goal in all but one match against Bordeaux. For this game, Kazan will not have Oleg Kuzmin available, following his sending off against the Reds. Furthermore goal scorer Igor Portnyagin will not be available due to injury, depleting the hosts' attacking force.
Liverpool
After a week that saw the Reds win two games, including a 3-1 victory against Chelsea, their sights have to be set on winning their first European match of the season. Despite all absences, Klopp's experience in this kind of tournaments might come in handy for the visitors, who will not have six players available for the game due to various injuries.
On the other hand, Klopp could have Phillippe Coutinho and Christian Benteke playing up front for the Reds. Both players were key for the team's 3-1 win against the Blues on Saturday, and their skills will surely be appreciated by the team's supporters if they can finally add a win to their European record. If Benteke's health is still a matter of concern, Belgian striker Divock Origi could take his place, making him a threat for Rubin Kazan's defense given his speed and ball handling skills.
Head to head
The only previous game between these sides happened back in October, with the Reds not being able to make their home field advantage work for their benefit. Marko Devic scored the go ahead goal for Rubin Kazan, and Emre Can equalized for the Reds before the first half ended.
Match details, result and original broadcast info
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