The UEFA Champions League reaches its midpoint on Wednesday with a slate of high-stakes fixtures. Liverpool's prolific European form contrasts sharply with their Premier League struggles, Porto sit near the bottom needing a result against Napoli, and Borussia Dortmund's Serhou Guirassy looks to extend his scoring run against Real Betis.
Liverpool's shooting woes
Liverpool have scored 12 goals in their first three Champions League games, with Bradley Barcola, Florian Wirtz and Dominik Szoboszlai among the scorers. Yet in the Premier League they have managed only 11 goals in nine matches, ranking 11th for expected goals (xG). Their average shot xG is well below the top-five league average of 0.111, with nearly 40% of attempts from outside the box and a league-high 37.9% of shots blocked. The discrepancy suggests their early European opponents — LASK and Villarreal — offered favorable matchups rather than a sustainable attacking rhythm.
Porto in must-win territory
Porto sit 35th in the league phase with zero points after three games. A home defeat to Napoli would likely end their knockout hopes, as projection models indicate nine points may be the cut line after eight matches. Coach Francesco Farioli acknowledged the gap: "The Champions League is a different competition. The demands and the details make all the difference. Being effective at every moment is important... we can do more, because this isn't enough." Porto have mustered just 30 shots worth 2.7 xG in Europe, with strikers Samu Aghehowa and Andre Silva combining for only four attempts. Key playmaker Borja Sainz, who averages 3.5 shots per game domestically, has yet to register a shot in the competition.
Guirassy's form against Spanish sides
Borussia Dortmund's Serhou Guirassy arrives in strong form, having scored 23 goals in 31 Champions League appearances (seven penalties) and 0.63 non-penalty xG per 90 minutes. The 30-year-old Guinean has a notable record against Spanish opposition, including a hat-trick against Barcelona in 2025. Real Betis, despite conceding just over 2.5 xG in three European games, rank 18th in La Liga for set-piece xG allowed and goals conceded, potentially offering Guirassy further opportunities.
