Liverpool vs Wolves: The Stage is Set
After a tumultuous Merseyside derby that saw Liverpool draw 2-2 with Everton, the Reds now turn their focus to the Premier League match against Wolves at Anfield on Sunday. Liverpool, under the management of Arne Slot, currently holds a seven-point lead over Arsenal at the top of the table. A win today would not only solidify their position but also keep them on course for their first league title under Slot’s tenure. The atmosphere from the derby is likely to carry over, with the team eager to capitalize on their home advantage and recover from the emotional draw.
The Aftermath of the Derby
The intense Merseyside derby was marked by drama, with James Tarkowski’s last-minute equalizer and a chaotic post-match incident that saw four red cards issued, including those for Slot and assistant manager Sipke Hulshoff. Although Liverpool managed to secure a point, the team will be looking to channel their frustration into a positive performance against Wolves. The match left several key players in question for Sunday, notably Curtis Jones, who is banned following his red card, and Cody Gakpo, who is a doubt due to an injury. Trent Alexander-Arnold, however, could be fit enough to start after making a second-half appearance in the derby.
Wolves’ Struggle for Survival
Wolves, on the other hand, are in a precarious position, just two points above the relegation zone. Under Vitor Pereira, the team has managed back-to-back wins, most recently against Aston Villa in the league and Blackburn Rovers in the FA Cup. These victories will boost their confidence as they prepare to face Liverpool. However, the task ahead is formidable, and Wolves will need to maintain their recent form and find ways to contain Liverpool’s formidable attack, particularly the threat posed by Mo Salah. Key players like Jorge Strand Larsen and Joao Gomes could return, adding depth to their squad.
Match Details and Viewing Information
The match kicks off at 2 PM on Sunday, 16 February, at Anfield, Liverpool. For those in the UK, the game will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event and Premier League, with coverage beginning at 1 PM. If you are not a Sky customer, you can access the match with a NOWTV Day Pass, allowing you to watch without a subscription. The match is not just a crucial game for both teams but also a spectacle for fans, with the high stakes and the historical significance of Anfield adding to the excitement.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Liverpool will be without Curtis Jones, who is serving a suspension, and Cody Gakpo, who is a doubt due to an injury. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s fitness is a positive note, and he could start. The predicted lineup for Liverpool includes Alisson in goal, Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, and Robertson in defense, with Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, and Mac Allister in midfield, and Salah, Nunez, and Diaz forming the attack.
For Wolves, Jorge Strand Larsen might return, and Joao Gomes is available after serving his suspension. The predicted lineup includes Sa in goal, Semedo, Doherty, Agbadou, and T. Gomes in defense, Ait-Nouri and Andre in midfield, and Sarabia, Cunha, and Guedes in attack. The team will need to be tactically disciplined to disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm and capitalize on any mistakes.
Prediction
Liverpool, still reeling from the emotional draw against Everton, will be determined to bounce back strong. The team’s home advantage, coupled with the talent and depth in their squad, makes them strong favorites to secure a victory. Wolves, while showing recent improvement, will face a tough challenge in containing Liverpool’s attack. If they can keep Mo Salah quiet, they might stand a chance, but it seems unlikely that they will manage to spring a shock result. Therefore, the prediction for this match is Liverpool 2-0 Wolves.
