The Premier League title race heats up as Liverpool travels to Villa Park to face Aston Villa in a high-stakes clash on Wednesday night. A victory for Arne Slot’s side could extend their lead at the top to 10 points, while Unai Emery’s Villa looks to solidify their European ambitions.
Match Preview
Liverpool enters this fixture after a tense 2-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. Despite a strong first half, the Reds struggled in the second, allowing Wolves to threaten their lead. Mohamed Salah’s penalty and Luis Diaz’s unusual midriff goal secured the crucial three points.
On the other hand, Aston Villa was left frustrated after a 1-1 draw against 10-man Ipswich Town. A late equalizer from Ollie Watkins saved the day for Emery’s men, but their lack of a clinical edge cost them two crucial points. With just two wins in their last seven matches, Villa must improve if they are to challenge for a top-four finish.
Head-to-Head Record
Liverpool has dominated recent meetings against Aston Villa, with the last nine encounters favoring the Reds. Their most recent match ended in a 2-0 victory for Liverpool, while Villa’s last triumph over Liverpool dates back to their remarkable 7-2 win in 2020.
Team News & Possible Lineups
Liverpool is sweating over the fitness of Cody Gakpo after he missed the Wolves clash. Tyler Morton (shoulder) and Joe Gomez (hamstring) are ruled out, while Curtis Jones returns from suspension. Arne Slot may rotate his squad, with Darwin Nunez and Kostas Tsimikas pushing for starts.
Aston Villa, meanwhile, is dealing with a defensive injury crisis. Boubacar Kamara, Pau Torres, Ross Barkley, Ezri Konsa, Amadou Onana, and Matty Cash are all doubtful, leaving Emery with limited options at the back.
Aston Villa Possible Starting XI: Martinez; Garcia, Mings, Disasi, Digne; Tielemans, McGinn; Ramsey, Rogers, Rashford; Watkins
Liverpool Possible Starting XI: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jones, Diaz; Nunez
Prediction
Villa has been strong at home, going 12 games unbeaten at Villa Park. However, their defensive vulnerabilities and Liverpool’s attacking firepower could make for an exciting contest. Given Liverpool’s fatigue and Villa’s home strength, a 1-1 draw seems likely, which could provide Arsenal an opening in the title race.
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