RB Leipzig can count on top strikers Loïs Openda and Amadou Haidara in the Champions League against Liverpool FC. The duo was injured after the win in Mainz, but completed their last training today. Both Openda and Haidara are expected to be in the starting XI against the former English champions on Wednesday (9pm/DAZN).

After two games, Leipzig is still without points in the new competition format of the top flight. Coach Marco Rose described Liverpool as “a plank”, but they still want to “start scoring. That would take the pressure off at the back”. Each team has eight matches in the competition phase. To reach the next round they must finish in the top 24 out of 36 teams.

Simons and the childhood dream

A key role will be played by Xavi Simons in Leipzig. The Dutch international is back in better form after a mixed start to the season. “As a little kid you dream about these games. I get goosebumps just thinking about them,” said the 21-year-old. Simons has not yet scored a goal in the Champions League this season, which is below his capabilities. “You have your ups and downs. I still have a lot to learn,” Simons said.

The willingness to learn, something coach Rose also testifies to Benjamin Sesko. The 21-year-old missed a big chance in Mainz on Saturday, facing Simons, who was in a much better position. Sky pundit Dietmar Hamann then said that he would have immediately replaced Sesko as coach, for which he had no sympathy.

Rose sees the situation less emotionally. “I have guys who think well of themselves. Sesko knew he had to play the ball. But now he’s fine, he didn’t hurt anyone,” Rose said. “What should I do? Should I fire him just so that someone is served? We have been very self-critical about it.”