Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
Liverpool face no pressure heading into this match, as they’ve already secured a spot in the top eight and a direct route to the round of 16. A draw would be sufficient to maintain their lead, but a victory would allow Liverpool to set a record in the revamped tournament with a perfect 24-point group stage.
PSV Eindhoven
PSV Eindhoven are seen as underdogs, but not without hope. They still need to secure their own play-off spot, which they can achieve with a draw. However, recent performances against mid-level opponents have highlighted defensive vulnerabilities. In the last round, PSV Eindhoven led 3:0 in Belgrade against Red Star Belgrade but conceded two second-half goals. Their most recent home Champions League fixture saw a dramatic 3:2 comeback win over Shakhtar Donetsk, requiring goals in the 87th, 90th, and 95th minutes—after the Ukrainian side had been reduced to ten men in the 69th minute.
Liverpool
Liverpool have lost just twice all season, both under extraordinary circumstances. In contrast to PSV's defensive struggles, Liverpool have been an attacking powerhouse, scoring 25 goals in their last eight matches across the Premier League and Champions League. Only once in that span did an opponent manage to hold them to a single goal. Given PSV’s defensive lapses, it’s unlikely the home side will keep a clean sheet.
PSV Eindhoven vs Liverpool Prediction
PSV Eindhoven’s shaky defence, even against weaker teams, makes it hard to see them doing better than a draw, especially if Liverpool don’t ease up. PSV Eindhoven will almost certainly concede at least two goals, given Liverpool’s clinical attack and recent form.