Milan looked like world-beaters in the preseason, smashing Real Madrid and Man City. But preseason's a mirage, and Serie A is the harsh desert. They've crashed back down to earth. Not just failing to improve, but actually playing worse than last season. No wins in three games? That's a crisis
Now they're facing Liverpool, who are firing on all cylinders. Three wins, sky-high confidence. It's a nightmare matchup for Milan right now. They're shaky, they're vulnerable, and Liverpool smells blood
Milan needs to find a way to dig deep, fast. They've got the talent, but the mentality is missing. If they can't flip the switch, Liverpool will steamroll them
But still, for Milan it will be a home game, it seems to me that bookmakers estimate Liverpool's chances quite fairly - 1.88. Liverpool is the favorite, but considering the away game and the fact that this is not a playoff game when everyone plays at their best, I would not bet on Liverpool. Liverpool are doing great in the Premier League and it can be assumed that they will be maximally focused on the Premier League, and the group stage of the Champions League will be assessed on a residual basis.
Liverpool's odds 1.93 now. Even though this is not a play-off, and it's an away game for them. But they should have won it to ensure they will be at the top 8 to get into the R16. I still consider this a very important match for them, and wish me luck to bet on Liverpool.
I doubt Liverpool would de-prioritize the UCL. They want to finish in the top 8, not 9th - 24th. Then, they could advance to the round of 16 without playing a 2-legged tie.