Liverpool FC and Fulham FC meets for the first leg of their semi-finals series, with aims of having the advantage, inching closer to the finals. Coming into this match, Liverpool and Fulham actually have different journey before booking their spots here. Liverpool had a dominating 5-1 win against West Ham, giving them their tickets in the semi-finals. On the other hand, Fulham did not have a smooth run on their way here, winning through penalties against Everton. Moreover, this is the 17th match between the two teams, where Liverpool earn more wins. They won 10 of those matches, while Fulham only had three wins across their names, and three draws. The meeting between Liverpool and Fulham is on January 11, 2023, at 4:00 AM (GMT+8).
Liverpool FC
Liverpool, following West Ham United’s 2-0 victory at the Emirates, reached round four against Arsenal. Despite being two or three goals down at halftime, Liverpool punished their hosts with a Jakub Kiwior own goal and Luis Diaz injury-time strike. The Reds are now fighting for a quadruple of honours, with Premier League and Europa League supremacy being realistic aims. They will be in the EFL Cup semi-finals for a record 19th time this week. The nine-time winners have sent Leicester City, Bournemouth, and West Ham United packing to reach the last four, and have never been defeated in their eight previous semi-final first legs at home. Liverpool’s unbeaten run across all tournaments is six matches, and they have gone 23 competitive games without ending up on the wrong end of the scoreline at Anfield.
Liverpool manager Klopp expressed disappointment over Van Dijk’s illness, but confirmed he is fit to start this week. Trent Alexander-Arnold is out for several weeks due to a knee injury, while others like Szoboszlai, Robertson, Bajcetic, Alcantara, Doak, and Matip are still in treatment. Saudi and Japan international Wataru Endo will miss the semi-finals.
Fulham FC
Fulham’s Fulham team has secured a 2-1 win over Arsenal. However, Rotherham’s visit to the Cottagers was not expected to be a significant test of their FA Cup credentials. However, only one goal could separate the two sides in West London, with Bobby Decordova-Reid scoring the winner against Arsenal. The Cottagers can move closer to their first-ever EFL Cup triumph with a shock success at Anfield, marking their inaugural semi-final appearance in the competition. They have already tasted success against one Merseyside outfit in this year’s tournament, but not since the 2012-13 season. Fulham’s two-legged tie against Middlesbrough or West London rivals Chelsea could be a tough one, as they have lost all five of their previous EFL Cup clashes with Liverpool.
Fulham’s squad is depleted by AFCON call-ups, with Nigerian players Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi leaving for national teams. Rotherham’s injuries are not new, but Traore and Ream missed the visit. Bernd Leno, Palhinha, and Jimenez should return to Silva’s starting lineup, while Harry Wilson should reprise his attack role.
Prediction:
Liverpool FC (1.5)
Odds: -0.99
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