Liverpool – form, tactics, and chances of progressing
A month has passed since they suffered a defeat in the first leg (1:2) in London, and now Liverpool will face Tottenham at their iconic Anfield with one clear goal – a two-goal win to reach a new EFL Cup final and continue their potential historic quadruple pursuit.
The form of Arne Slot’s team suggests they are more than capable of completing that task. Liverpool are unbeaten in their last 15 home games across all competitions, scoring at least two goals in each match. They’ve won 13 of those 15 games, further demonstrating their strength when playing at home.
A recent win against Bournemouth (2:0) in the Premier League, in which Mohamed Salah was again the key figure with two goals, gives them confidence heading into this crucial fixture.
The only concern for Liverpool is the absence of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who picked up a thigh injury against Bournemouth and will not be available for the second leg. His position will likely be taken by young Conor Bradley, while Robertson and Tsimikas will compete for the left-back position. There is also the return of Dominik Szoboszlai to midfield, who will likely partner Mac Allister and Gravenberch in the middle of the park.
Liverpool is not just offensively powerful but also tactically adaptable. Their ability to press high and win the ball back in dangerous areas will be key against Tottenham, who will likely look to play on the counter.
Tottenham – form, tactics, and chances of progressing
In contrast to Liverpool, Tottenham heads into this match with a somewhat mixed form but with the advantage from the first leg (2:1). Ange Postecoglou’s team has had its ups and downs in recent weeks, but their 2:0 victory over Brentford in the Premier League provided them with some stability before this decisive clash.
The biggest issue for Spurs is their poor record at Anfield – they last won there in 2011 and have only managed three draws in 14 visits since then. However, the advantage for them is that a draw will be enough to see them through.
Postecoglou will likely set up his team more defensively than usual, but that doesn’t mean they’ll completely sit back. Tottenham is known for their quick counter-attacks, and the trio of Kulusevski, Richarlison, and Son will be crucial in this regard.
A major blow for Spurs is the season-ending injury to Radu Dragusin, who suffered a knee injury against Elfsborg. His place in the defense will be taken by Micky van de Ven, who was rested over the weekend and is ready to play alongside Ben Davies. Postecoglou has also mentioned that Destiny Udogie, Guglielmo Vicario, Brennan Johnson, Wilson Odobert, and Timo Werner will all be back in action soon, though Cristian Romero and Dominic Solanke’s returns will take longer.
Betting Suggestions
- Liverpool win & 2+ goals in the match ✅
- Liverpool is incredibly strong at home, while Spurs’ history at Anfield is not in their favor. The fact that Liverpool needs to chase a result means they’ll attack from the first minute, which should lead to goals.
- Mohamed Salah to score ✅
- The Egyptian is in great form and is a key player for Liverpool in important matches.
- Over 2.5 total goals ✅
- Both teams have offensive power, and Liverpool will need to attack, which could open up space for Tottenham’s counters.
- Liverpool win & both teams to score ✅
- Tottenham has players capable of scoring from counter-attacks, while Liverpool are favorites to win at Anfield.
- Over 5.5 total cards in the match ✅
- An intense and combative match is expected, and with the significance of the game and the playing styles of both teams, the referee could be busy.
Conclusion: Liverpool is the favorite, but Tottenham has their chances through counter-attacks. An exciting second leg is expected, with plenty of goals and high-intensity play.
