The anticipation is building as Liverpool prepares to face Newcastle United for the 27th round of the Premier League on February 26, 2025.
Liverpool, under the guidance of manager Arne Slot, has been on fire this season, currently sitting at the top of the Premier League standings, with 64 points from 27 matches. They have registered 19 wins, 7 draws, and only one loss. The team has showcased impressive offensive capabilities, scoring 64 goals and conceding only 26, reflecting both their strong attack and solid defense.
Fresh off their most recent victory against Manchester City, where they won 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium, Liverpool has extended their unbeaten streak to 23 matches, with 16 wins and 7 draws. Notably, this season, they have maintained an incredible home record at Anfield, where they have not lost for 17 consecutive matches, winning 15 of those. This season's average of 2.3 goals scored per home game makes them especially dangerous on their own turf.
On the other hand, Newcastle United, managed by Eddie Howe, is fighting for a top-four position to secure Champions League qualification. Currently sitting fifth with 44 points from 26 matches, Newcastle has recorded 13 wins, 5 draws, and 8 losses. The 'Magpies' have displayed strong attacking performances but have struggled defensively at times, losing heavily to opponents like Manchester City with a score of 0-4 earlier this month.
The last five matches have exemplified this inconsistency; after suffering back-to-back defeats, they bounced back with a thrilling 4-3 victory against Nottingham Forest. This game was marked by four goals scored before the 35-minute mark, demonstrating Newcastle's explosive attacking potential.
Historically speaking, Liverpool holds the upper hand against Newcastle at Anfield, having not lost against them since 1994. The two teams faced off earlier this season, resulting in a dramatic 3-3 draw, which showcased the offensive capabilities of both squads.
For this upcoming match, betting odds favor Liverpool heavily, with bookmakers contemplating around 1.48 for Liverpool's victory, indicating approximately 66% likelihood. A win for Newcastle is seen as much less likely, with odds placed at 6.50 (around 15% probability). The draw outcome is estimated at 5.00, or about 19% likelihood.
Analysts believe the match is poised for plenty of action. The odds for at least two goals scored are set around 1.15, with predictions for the total surpassing three goals at 1.42. With Liverpool's scoring form and Newcastle's attacking sharpness, this matchup has all the ingredients for another high-scoring affair.
Key players to watch include Mohamed Salah, leading the league's scoring charts, and Alexander Isak for Newcastle, who has shown consistent form and now has 19 goals to his name, placing him among the season's top scorers. Even with injuries sidelining some effective players from both squads, their depth may prove beneficial as the game progresses.
One intriguing angle is how Newcastle will contend with Liverpool's dynamic gameplay, particularly when they have vulnerabilities on defense. Of note, the last time Newcastle secured points at Anfield was during the COVID-19 pandemic when they drew 1-1 in 2021, which lacked the electric atmosphere the players would typically experience with fans present.
Final predictions lean heavily toward Liverpool maintaining their impressive home form against Newcastle. Expect yet again to see the 'Reds' capitalize on their home advantage, aiming for another solid performance as they bolster their title chase. Betting predictions suggest Liverpool is likely to win, with some anonymous analysts chiming, "Liverpool's systematic approach and tactical prowess should see them through this game against Newcastle," which reiterates their status as favorites.
With all factors considered, fans and bettors alike are gearing up for what promises to be another electrifying chapter between these two Premier League rivals.