-snip-
It is hard to expect Real Madrid to be at their best every season, last season was a success for them and this time they have problems with injuries and it has mostly affected their defense. After they lost Carvajal it was clear that this would be a big problem for Real, after another injury to Courtois it got even worse and after an injury to Militao that kept him out for the rest of the season it got even worse. It is obvious that now the weakest line for Real is the defense and this may not allow them to achieve anything significant this season.
I don't care how many of Real Madrid's main players are feared to miss the match against Liverpool - it's just that I'm worried that Liverpool failed to make good use of the situation. A defeat against Real Madrid probably won't have much of an impact on Liverpool's chances of progressing to the last 16 - but I do hope Liverpool can secure a home win against Madrid this season.
So far Arne Slot and Liverpool's performance has convinced me enough to expect a lot - of course. Leading the Champions League and Premier League standings is a great thing to maintain - but I admit that it will be difficult when the pressure in each game increases. Real Madrid can never be underestimated despite losing several key players - they have been too good in the Champions League almost every season, but I hope this is not the season for them.