Liverpool vs Chelsea: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Published at :January 29, 2024 at 1:33 PM

Modified at :January 29, 2024 at 1:33 PM

Long-awaited Premier League clash between two giants of English football

Liverpool approach this match with a positive streak of form, having suffered only one defeat in their last 11 games across various competitions – a 2-1 loss to Union Saint-Gilloise in the Europa League. Notably, their commendable performance includes seven victories and three draws, propelling them to the EFL Cup final and the Round of 16 of the FA Cup. Leading the Premier League standings, the Reds boast 48 points from 21 games and look to widen their lead at the top.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are steadily ascending in the standings, aiming to revive their season. Currently positioned ninth in the Premier League with 31 points from 21 games, the Blues are demonstrating a decent run of form. They have suffered only two defeats in their last 10 matches, clinching seven wins and one draw. Additionally, Chelsea have advanced to the EFL Cup final, where they will clash against the Reds.

Kick-Off:

Thursday, 1 February 2024 at 08:15 PM GMT (01:45 AM IST)

Location: Anfield

Form

Liverpool (all competitions): W-W-W-D-W

Chelsea (all competitions): W-L-W-W-D

Players to watch

Darwin Nunez (Liverpool)

With Salah unavailable, the responsibility for much of the attacking duties falls on the shoulders of the skilled Darwin Nunez, who will be under the spotlight against the Blues. The Uruguayan has made 13 goal contributions in the league this season, trailing only behind Salah (22). In total, the 24-year-old has accumulated 10 goals and 10 assists in 32 games across various competitions this season.

Cole Palmer (Chelsea)

The recent addition, Cole Palmer, has proven to be a standout performer for the Blues this season after his move from Manchester City. With 13 goal contributions in the Premier League, he has also taken on the role of Chelsea’s primary penalty taker. He aims to increase this tally further, solidifying his position as the standout player for the Blues at present.

Match facts:

Each of the last seven meetings between Liverpool and Chelsea in all competitions have finished level – it’s the longest run of consecutive draws between two top-flight clubs in English football history.
Liverpool have lost just one of their last 11 Premier League games against Chelsea.
Chelsea have lost just two of their last 11 Premier League away games against Liverpool.

Injury & Team News

The Reds face defensive challenges with Matip, Alexander-Arnold, and Tsimikas sidelined, along with Salah’s absence due to knee ligament damage. Even if Salah recovers, he may miss games representing Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations. Endo is also out for the AFC Asian Cup. Klopp plans to maintain the strongest XI for momentum.

The Blues are missing Fofana, Cucurella, James, and potentially Sanchez. Petrovic may step in as the goalkeeper. Lavia is doubtful, and Jackson is unavailable as he gears for Senegal’s AFCON round of 16. Pochettino intends to stick with the winning XI against Fulham in the last league game.

Head to Head

Total Matches – 195

Liverpool – 84

Chelsea – 65

Draws – 46

Predicted Lineup:

Liverpool predicted lineup

Alisson; Gomez, Van Dijk, Konate, Bradley; Jones, Szoboszlai, Gravenberch; Gakpo, Nunez, Jota

Chelsea predicted lineup

Petrovic; Badiashile, Silva, Disasi, Gilchrist; Fernandez, Caicedo; Sterling, Gallagher, Madueke; Palmer

Match prediction for Liverpool vs Chelsea

Evidently, the last five league encounters between the two teams show a remarkable lack of distinction. Additionally, they engaged in two cup matches, both goalless for 120 minutes before being determined through penalties. This strongly suggests that the upcoming fixture is poised to be closely contested, given the impressive form carried by both Liverpool and Chelsea. However, expectations lean towards a goal-filled match, considering the good form of players on both teams.

Prediction: Liverpool 2-2 Chelsea

Telecast

India – Star Sports, Disney+ Hotstar

UK – Sky Sports, TNT Sports, Amazon Prime Video

US – NBC, USA Network, Peacock

Nigeria – DSTV, Gotv, Star Times, Kwese TV

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