Brighton & Hove Albion will host Liverpool in a thrilling EFL Cup round of 16 clash at the Amex Stadium, with a spot in the quarter-finals at stake. Both teams will aim to progress in the competition, with Brighton looking to cause an upset and Liverpool keen to extend their unbeaten run.
Brighton & Hove Albion
Brighton are coming off a frustrating 2-2 draw against Wolves in the Premier League, where they squandered a two-goal lead. Fabian Hurzeler’s side will need to improve defensively to have a chance against a strong Liverpool side. Despite their recent vulnerabilities, the Seagulls have shown they can compete with top teams and will be looking to capitalize on home advantage.
Team News: Brighton have several injury concerns, with Matt O’Riley, Joao Pedro, James Milner, Adam Webster, Solly March, Yankuba Minteh, Jack Hinshelwood, and Lewis Dunk all sidelined due to various injuries. These absences will force Hurzeler to shuffle his squad.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Verbruggen; Veltman, Julio, van Hecke, Estupinan; Wieffer, Baleba; Adingra, Enciso, Mitoma; Welbeck
Liverpool
Liverpool are unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions, including a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Arsenal at the weekend. Jürgen Klopp will be confident heading into this match but may rotate his squad to manage player fitness amid their busy schedule.
Team News: Harvey Elliott, Alisson Becker, Federico Chiesa, Conor Bradley, and Diogo Jota are all out with injuries. Klopp is expected to field a strong lineup despite the absences, with Caoimhin Kelleher likely to start in goal.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Kelleher; Gomez, Quansah, van Dijk, Tsimikas; Endo, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Nunez
Key Stats:
- Brighton have scored at least two goals in each of their last three home matches against Liverpool.
- The last six meetings between these two teams have produced 21 goals.
- Both Brighton and Liverpool have won two of their last six meetings.
- Brighton are unbeaten in five of their last six matches in all competitions.
- Liverpool have won five and drawn one of their last six matches.
Player to Watch: Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah remains a key player for Liverpool, continuing to deliver consistent performances. He scored a crucial goal against Arsenal at the weekend and will be a major threat to Brighton’s defense. His creativity and goal-scoring ability will be pivotal as Liverpool aim to secure a quarter-final spot.
Brighton vs Liverpool Prediction:
Liverpool’s depth and form give them the edge in this match, but Brighton’s attacking prowess at home could make it a competitive affair.
Brighton & Hove Albion 1-2 Liverpool
How to Watch Brighton vs Liverpool
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