After the electrifying midweek Champions League clashes, the spotlight shifts to the Premier League action as Liverpool gear up to welcome Crystal Palace at Anfield on Sunday, 14th April at 6:30 PM. With Liverpool eyeing an extension of their lead at the league summit and Crystal Palace striving to distance themselves from the relegation scrap, anticipation is high for an enthralling encounter.
Liverpool, fresh off a pivotal UEFA Champions League quarter-final bout against Atalanta, are entrenched in a tight battle at the summit of the Premier League. Jurgen Klopp’s men, sharing the second spot with Arsenal, are determined to maintain the pressure on the league leaders. Despite facing setbacks in the form of injuries to key players like Thiago Alcantara and Joel Matip, the Reds remain formidable, boasting an impressive tally of 72 goals in 31 league fixtures.
That last-minute winner by the birthday boy at Palace earlier this season 😮💨💎 pic.twitter.com/I6GNmhnm1B
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) April 4, 2024
In contrast, Crystal Palace find themselves in the lower echelons of the league table, currently occupying the 14th position. With just five points cushioning them from the relegation zone, the Eagles are aware of the significance of every point in their bid for survival. However, their defensive record away from home raises concerns, having conceded significantly in their travels this season.
Jurgen Klopp’s side will look to capitalize on their home advantage, despite missing key personnel such as Thiago Alcantara and Joel Matip due to injuries. However, the return of pivotal figures like Diogo Jota and Trent Alexander-Arnold bolsters Liverpool’s lineup, potentially reinstating their formidable attacking prowess.
On the other hand, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner faces selection dilemmas due to a spate of injuries, leaving key players such as Cheick Doucoure and Rob Holding sidelined. The potential returns of Odsonne Edouard and Jesurun Rak-Sakyi provide a glimmer of hope for the visitors.
Historically, Liverpool has dominated this fixture, with Crystal Palace failing to secure a victory since 2017. With 19 wins in 31 encounters, the Reds hold a significant advantage over their opponents.
In terms of predictions, the MoneyMan forecasts a convincing 3-1 victory for Liverpool, while MoneyBall predicts a tighter 2-1 win for the home side.
From talk of landing a thrilling quadruple to the threat of Jurgen Klopp’s farewell turning into a damp squib. How quickly the landscape has shifted.
Suddenly, Liverpool’s match with Crystal Palace on Sunday has taken on even greater significance. Win or bust.@JamesPearceLFC
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) April 12, 2024