Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
In 2025, Liverpool have slightly fallen off their usual winning pace, yet they continue to lead both the Premier League and the Champions League. The Anfield crowd is likely to give the Merseyside club extra energy against Lille, who have not faced top-tier competition for some time.
Liverpool
Despite securing only two wins in five matches this January, Liverpool remain in solid form. In their away game against Brentford (2:0), Liverpool turned up the heat in the final stages, with Darwin Nunez scoring twice off the bench, underlining their dominance with 3.40 xG and 37 shots in 90 minutes. In the Champions League, Liverpool are second, boasting the best goal difference (+12) and maintaining a perfect points record, securing their place in the Round of 16 early.
Lille
Lille have produced surprising results in the current campaign, yet benefitted from favourable matchups in the last two European fixtures. Victories over Bologna (2:1) and Sturm Graz (3:2) were not without stress, as opponents created a total of 1.70 xG. Last Friday, Lille scraped by Nice (2:1) as injuries at the back resulted in an alarming 2.87 xGA.
Liverpool vs Lille Prediction
Based on advanced statistics, Lille's luck appears likely to run out at Anfield. If the French side concede their usual high number of chances, Liverpool are expected to secure a comfortable win with three to four goals.
