Liverpool vs Arsenal: Match preview, possible lineups, predictions and team news
Team News and Injuries
Liverpool will be without several key players, including Joel Matip, Thiago, Andy Robertson, Alexis Mac Allister, and Diogo Jota. There are also doubts over Ryan Gravenberch's availability. Arsenal faces injury woes as well, with Jurrien Timber, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Fabio Vieira, Mohamed Elneny, and possibly Thomas Partey out of action.
Pre-Game Tactical Analysis
Both teams rely heavily on their wide forwards – Bukayo Saka for Arsenal and Mohamed Salah for Liverpool – making them key players to watch. Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, has shown great intensity and composure, especially after their recent victory against Brighton. Liverpool, on the other hand, will aim to be clinical in the final third. The match is expected to be high-scoring, given both teams' attacking prowess
Key Players to watch
- Gabriel Jesus (Arsenal): He's been in good form, contributing significantly in recent matches against Luton and Brighton.
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): A consistent threat for Liverpool, known for his goal-scoring and playmaking abilities.
- Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal): Known for his impressive performances against Liverpool, he's a player capable of making a significant impact
Predicted Lineups
- Liverpool XI: Alisson, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Tsimikas, Endo, Szoboszlai, Jones, Salah, Nunez, Diaz.
- Arsenal XI: Raya, White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko, Rice, Havertz, Odegaard, Saka, Jesus, Martinelli.
Recent Form
Liverpool recently had a goalless draw against Manchester United, while Arsenal secured a 2-0 victory over Brighton. Both teams have been closely matched this season, with Liverpool on 38 points and Arsenal on 39, both having conceded 15 goals. Liverpool has scored 36 goals, just one more than Arsenal's 35.
Playing Styles and Tactics
Liverpool is known for their intense attacking play, while Arsenal has been maturing under Arteta’s guidance, showing a blend of intensity and composure. This match will be a test of both teams' tactical acumen and resilience.
Predictions
The game is expected to be closely contested, with both teams capable of exploiting each other's weaknesses. It's predicted to be an entertaining match, with both teams likely to score.
Time and Where to watch
The match time is 9pm WAT and for Nigerian viewers, it's best to check local sports channels for live coverage closer to the match, like SuperSports