3 reasons why Real Madrid need to be careful with Liverpool's offense

Out of the whole Liverpool squad, only Raheem Sterling would be able to have a prominent role in this Real Madrid roster. However, they are a dynamic team that could harm Real's defense on any given night, so Ancelotti's men -- especially Varane and Pepe -- will need to be very careful with the reds.

3 reasons

1. Raheem Sterling is great - Real Madrid should be ready for Raheem Sterling. The coaching staff has surely analyzed his game and given good advice to Real's defenders, but he's unpredictable. He can play anywhere -- behind the striker, on either wing and even in a midfield trio -- so Sterling will be able to change his position during the game in order to find the best matchup for him. He's arguably Liverpool's best player -- no question about it with Daniel Sturridge out -- and Real Madrid will need to stop him if they want to walk away of Anfield with the three points.
2. Set pieces - These situations can always hurt Real Madrid, right? Well, Liverpool's attacking set pieces are ridiculously good, and while their defensive line is not great when it comes to defend, Martin Skrtel, Mamadou Sakho and Henderson are very capable of scoring goals off corner-kicks and set pieces. Iker Casillas and the whole Real Madrid squad will need to step their game up and be ready for the challenge.
3. Mario Balotelli's own Russian roulette - When you decide to start Mario Balotelli, you're sort of playing Russian roulette in football. He can be the world's best striker in 1 game out of 30 -- Eurocup Semifinals against Germany two years ago -- and then spend three months without playing at a decent level. If Balotelli decides to show up this Wednesday, Varane and Pepe will need to be very careful. If he doesn't, Liverpool will almost play without a striker.