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Spartak Moscow vs Liverpool as it happened: Wasteful Reds fail to win again

Getty
Getty

Liverpool wasted a string of chances and needed a first-half equaliser from Philippe Coutinho to secure a 1-1 draw with Spartak Moscow in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Liverpool fell behind when goalkeeper Loris Karius was slow to react to a curling free kick from 25 metres by Spartak's Fernando, which sailed into the net in the 23nd minute.

Jurgen Klopp's side were back on level terms, however, eight minutes later when Sadio Mane, returning after a three-match domestic suspension, combined brilliantly with Coutinho, before the Brazilian fired the ball above Spartak goalkeeper Artem Rebrov.

With draws in their first two Champions League fixtures, Liverpool and Spartak have two points, behind Group E leaders Sevilla, who beat Maribor 3-0.

What time does it start?

The game kicks off at 7.45pm (BST) at the Otkrytiye Arena on Tuesday 26 September.

Where can I watch it?

BT Sport 2 will be broadcasting the game. Alternatively, return to this page for updates from our live blog.

It's a big game for...

Is Klopp ready to show faith in Karius for the long-term? (Getty)
Is Klopp ready to show faith in Karius for the long-term? (Getty)

Loris Karius. The German goalkeeper has been guaranteed a start by his manager, and with Simon Mignolet suffering another mixed game against Leicester at the weekend this could well be a chance for Karius to prove he deserves a longer run in the first team.

Player to watch…

Pasalic scored in Spartak's recent win over FC Tosno (Getty Images)
Pasalic scored in Spartak's recent win over FC Tosno (Getty Images)

Mario Pasalic. The Croatian midfielder is one of the horde of youngsters sent out on loan by Chelsea. Signed from Hajduk Split in 2014, he has spent almost all of his time away from Stamford Bridge – taking in spells at Elche, Monaco and AC Milan. He signed a new four-year contract with the Blues this summer though and has nailed down a starting place at the heart of the Spartak midfield. Known more for his defensive capabilities but has still chipped in with a few goals already this season. A Premier League star of the future?

Form…

Spartak Moscow: DWDDW

Liverpool: WLDDL

Odds…

Spartak Moscow: 9/2

Draw: 7/2

Liverpool: 4/7