Analysis:

This match is a do or die for Liverpool and could also decide the fate of Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez. A defeat here would end their participation in the Champions League for sure.

Now Benitez admits they need to repeat their form from the 2007/2008 season when they managed a hat trick of wins from their last three last games including an inspiring 4-0 away win over French side Marseille.

But with six defeats from their last seven games, Benitez is walking on a tight rope now. On the other hand, Lyon only needs a draw here to join the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United, Porto and domestic rivals Bordeaux in the knockout stages.

Lyon are currently second in their domestic league. Their last clash with Liverpool saw them come from behidn to win 2-1. Claude Puel has promised to field a strong side but the likes of Anderson, former Newcastle defender Jean-Alain Boumsong, Mathieu Bodmer and Francois Clerc are all unavailable due to injury. Anthony Reveillere is a doubt after sustaining a groin problem.

Liverpool will miss the services of Captain Steven Gerrard after he has not travelled to France as speculation continues to suggest the England star will require an operation on the groin complaint in the match against Ukraine. Then the likes of Martin Kelly (ankle), Martin Skrtel (muscle), Glen Johnson (calf), Fabio Aurelio (calf) are out which means there are problems in defence. Then winger Albert Riera (hamstring) is unavailable also.

Fernando Torres may have to go through pain killing injections to play. Benitez could bring on summer signing Alberto Aquilani here. Then there are also doubts over Daniel Agger (back) and David Ngog (ankle).

However take Liverpool and accept the 1/4 ball here.

Cheers and good luck,
Cruiser

The Pick :

Liverpool to win 2-1

FIXED ODDS BETTING :

Take Liverpool to win here.

HANDICAP BETTING :

Take Liverpool and accept the 1/4 ball here.