In an intriguing EFL Cup semi-final clash, Liverpool welcomes Fulham to Anfield following their recent victories in the FA Cup third round.
The Reds secured a 2-0 win against Arsenal, while Fulham edged past Rotherham United with a 1-0 win.
Match Preview
Liverpool’s hard-fought victory against Arsenal, despite missing key players like Virgil van Dijk and the imminent absence of Mohamed Salah for AFCON, showcased their resilience.
Jurgen Klopp’s squad maintains ambitions for multiple honors this season, with the Premier League and Europa League within reach.
The Reds will compete in their 19th EFL Cup semi-final, historically having an unbeaten run in the first legs at home.
Fulham, under Marco Silva’s guidance, secured a narrow 1-0 win against Rotherham United in the FA Cup.
The Cottagers have notched some impressive victories, eliminating Everton and holding victories over Tottenham Hotspur and Norwich City in the EFL Cup. However, they face an uphill task against a formidable Liverpool side.
Team News
Liverpool will welcome back Virgil van Dijk after his illness but suffer the absence of Trent Alexander-Arnold due to a knee injury.
Several other players remain sidelined, including Thiago Alcantara and Joel Matip, while Salah and Wataru Endo will miss both legs due to their continental commitments.
Klopp might rely on Conor Bradley, Ryan Gravenberch, and Diogo Jota to refresh the starting XI.
Fulham has also been affected by AFCON call-ups, with Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, and Fode Ballo-Toure joining their national teams.
Adama Traore and Tim Ream are doubtful due to injuries. Bernd Leno, Joao Palhinha, and Raul Jimenez are expected to return to the starting lineup, while Harry Wilson could play a key role in the attack.
Predicted Lineups
Liverpool: (4-3-3)
Kelleher;
Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez;
Jones, Mac Allister, Gravenberch;
Jota, Nunez, Diaz
Fulham: (4-2-3-1)
Leno;
Tete, Adarabioyo, Diop, Robinson;
Cairney, Palhinha;
Wilson, Pereira, Decordova-Reid;
Jimenez
Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Fulham
Fulham, benefiting from additional rest, may pose a challenge to Liverpool, especially considering the Reds’ defensive vulnerabilities against Arsenal.
However, Liverpool’s attacking prowess and the return of key players like Van Dijk should secure a narrow win for Klopp’s side.
