Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
A Southampton victory is considered unlikely, though a win would be a significant upset. Similar upsets have happened to Nottingham Forest, but it seems they have learned from past mistakes.
Southampton
Expecting a win from a team that only emerged victorious in the 10th round against the other Liverpool club, Everton (1:0), scoring only in the 85th minute, and then lost to fellow strugglers Wolverhampton Wanderers (0:2), seems odd. Southampton have scored the fewest goals in the league (seven) and have fallen short of their expected goals by over five (-5.10 xGDiff). Against opposition like Liverpool, they concede potential chances worth at least 2.5 xGA, leading to two or three goals conceded. Additionally, their first-choice goalkeeper, Aaron Ramsdale, is unlikely to feature due to a fractured finger.
Liverpool
Liverpool, on the other hand, have scored at least two goals in each of their last five matches. Among the teams they’ve overcome are Bayer Leverkusen (4:0) and Aston Villa (2:0) – their two last fixtures before the international break. During the game against Aston Villa, defender Trent Alexander-Arnold sustained a thigh injury. He didn’t play for the national team in the Nations League but could feature in this match, as could Virgil van Dijk, who returned from international duty with a minor knock. However, it's possible that Arne Slot might rest both players ahead of the crucial Champions League clash with Real Madrid next Wednesday.
Southampton vs Liverpool Prediction
The hosts shouldn't expect much good. In their last five encounters, Liverpool scored at least two goals, only failing to win once (a 4:4 draw in 2023). Liverpool are set to win and won't have to rely on a narrow margin, as they aim to maintain their lead over the chasing pack, ensuring a comfortable victory.
