By Liverpool and Chelsea are set to renew their rivalry in a pivotal Premier League encounter at Anfield on Sunday afternoon, as both sides aim to solidify their positions near the top of the table. This match marks the return of Premier League action following the international break and promises to be a showcase of attacking talent and tactical acumen.
Liverpool, under the guidance of new manager Arne Slot, have made an impressive start to the season, currently leading the Premier League with 16 points from seven matches. The Reds enter this fixture on the back of a six-game winning streak across all competitions, including a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace in their last outing.
Chelsea, led by Enzo Maresca, have also shown promising form, sitting fourth in the table with 13 points. The Blues boast the second-best attacking record in the league, having scored 16 goals, just one behind Manchester City’s tally of 17.
Team News:
Liverpool face a significant setback with goalkeeper Alisson Becker sidelined until after the November international break. Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to deputize. Harvey Elliott remains out with a foot fracture, while Federico Chiesa’s status is unclear. Arne Slot hinted at “some issues” from the international break, which could lead to rotations in the starting lineup.
Chelsea will be without suspended defenders Wesley Fofana and Marc Cucurella, both having accumulated five yellow cards. This opens opportunities for Renato Veiga and either Axel Disasi or Tosin Adarabioyo in the backline. On a positive note, Reece James has returned to training and is available for selection.
Possible lineups:
Liverpool (4-3-3): Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Jones, Gravenberch; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Jota
Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; Gusto, Disasi, Colwill, Veiga; Caicedo, Fernandez; Madueke, Palmer, Sancho; Jackson
Key Battle:
The match could hinge on the duel between Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Chelsea’s makeshift left-back. Salah’s early return from international duty gives him a freshness advantage, while Chelsea’s defensive reshuffle due to suspensions could be exploited by Liverpool’s potent attack.
Historical Context:
Liverpool holds the upper hand in recent meetings, with Chelsea winless in their last nine encounters against the Reds. The Blues’ last victory over Liverpool dates back to March 2021.
Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Chelsea
This clash promises to be a tactical and entertaining affair, pitting Chelsea’s prolific attack against Liverpool’s robust defense. While both teams have shown impressive form, Liverpool’s home advantage and Chelsea’s defensive suspensions could prove decisive. Expect a closely fought match with Liverpool’s well-rested key players like Salah and Van Dijk potentially making the difference.
The outcome of this fixture could have significant implications for the Premier League title race, with both teams looking to stake their claim as genuine contenders. As the season progresses, this early clash between two of England’s footballing giants may well be remembered as a pivotal moment in the 2024-25 campaign.
