*Match preview and betting tips provided by SVB Tips
Liverpool's Quest for Redemption
Liverpool have been dominant this season, but the pressure’s on after their 1-3 defeat to Chelsea in their first game following the title celebrations. Manager Arne Slot made several changes to the starting XI, but the team is now focused on avoiding becoming the third Premier League champion to lose their first two matches after securing the title (joining Arsenal in 1997/98 and Chelsea in 2005/06).
In a surprising twist, Liverpool also made headlines after Trent Alexander-Arnold announced he would be leaving Anfield at the end of the season, with Real Madrid reportedly the destination.
Meanwhile, stars Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, both nearing contract expiry, have committed to staying for now.
Salah, in particular, poses a serious threat to Arsenal, having scored 11 Premier League goals against them. His experience is matched by Van Dijk, who will make his 300th Premier League appearance in this game.
Arsenal’s Struggles and Hopes for a Strong Finish
Arsenal have had a tough time recently, suffering a Champions League semifinal exit at the hands of PSG. In the second leg, they lost 1-2, failing to overcome a 0-1 deficit from the first leg. The defeat came after a tough run, including a loss to Bournemouth (1-2) in the Premier League, leaving them winless in four games.
With the title already out of reach, Mikel Arteta’s team is focusing on securing second place, needing seven points to guarantee that position, without relying on other results. Arsenal have dropped 21 points this season from winning positions, including five points in their last two matches against Crystal Palace and Bournemouth. Despite these struggles, Bukayo Saka remains their key player, having scored four goals in his last five appearances against Liverpool, although all of them came at the Emirates.
Key Stats and Match Insights:
- Liverpool's Home Record: Liverpool have not lost to Arsenal in their last 14 home matches (7 wins, 7 draws).
- Arsenal's Away Form: Arsenal have gone unbeaten in their last five Premier League meetings with Liverpool (2 wins, 3 draws).
- Last Meeting: The last encounter ended 2-2 at the Emirates, with Arsenal taking the lead twice but Liverpool equalising both times.
- Goals: The last five Premier League games between the two sides have seen both teams score.
Probable Lineups:
Liverpool (4-2-3-1):
Alisson; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Diaz
Arsenal (4-3-3):
Raya; White, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Saka, Merino, Martinelli
Betting Suggestions:
- Both Teams to Score (BTTS) - Yes: Given the recent history of high-scoring encounters between these two teams, the odds on both teams scoring are appealing. Arsenal has been leaking goals away from home, and Liverpool's attacking prowess, led by Salah, should give Arsenal’s defense a tough time.
- Mohamed Salah to Score Anytime: Salah’s incredible record against Arsenal (11 goals) makes him a strong candidate to score in this match. With his current form, he will likely be the main threat for Liverpool.
- Over 2.5 Goals: With both teams in attacking mode and the history of their encounters, an over 2.5 goals bet seems like a good option. Arsenal has shown vulnerabilities in defense, while Liverpool has been potent going forward.
- Liverpool to Win or Draw (Double Chance): Considering Liverpool’s unbeaten record against Arsenal at Anfield, betting on Liverpool to win or draw offers a good safety net.