Liverpool Vs Leeds United: Live Score, Preview, Lineup, Telecast Details
| Date | Today, Thursday, January 1, 2026 |
| Time | 11:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Anfield, Liverpool |
| Competition | Premier League (Matchweek 19) |
🏟️ New Year’s Day Clash at Anfield
Liverpool kick off 2026 by hosting Leeds United in a high-stakes New Year’s Day encounter at Anfield. Arne Slot’s side entered the new year on a high after a 2-1 victory over Wolves, a result that propelled them into the top four. Having won three consecutive league matches, the Reds are looking to maintain their momentum and close the gap on the league leaders, despite some key personnel missing through injury and international duty.
Leeds United, managed by Daniel Farke, arrive on Merseyside in their best form of the season. The Peacocks are unbeaten in their last five Premier League outings, a run that includes a thrilling 3-3 draw against Liverpool just last month. Currently sitting in mid-table, Leeds have proven they can go toe-to-toe with the giants, and they will be eager to spoil the New Year celebrations at Anfield.
- Event: Premier League Matchweek 19
- Date: Thursday, January 1, 2026
- Time: 11:00 PM IST
- Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
- Context: Liverpool aims to solidify their top-four spot while Leeds seeks to extend an impressive unbeaten streak.
📊 Team Analysis & Form
Liverpool (Coach: Arne Slot, Form: W W W D D)
The Reds are finding their rhythm under Slot but face selection headaches. Mohamed Salah is away at AFCON, while Alexander Isak remains sidelined with a long-term injury. However, the return of Dominik Szoboszlai from suspension is a major boost. Liverpool’s home form has been formidable, and the recent arrival of Florian Wirtz has added a new creative dimension to their midfield, especially after he netted his first goal for the club against Wolves.
Leeds United (Coach: Daniel Farke, Form: D W D D W)
Leeds have transformed into a resilient unit in recent weeks. Their 4-1 thrashing of Crystal Palace and draws against big hitters like Chelsea and Liverpool have injected massive confidence. They are, however, missing defensive pillar Joe Rodon due to an ankle injury sustained against Sunderland. Despite this, their tactical flexibility and high-intensity pressing under Farke make them a dangerous opponent on the counter.
⭐ Key Players
- Liverpool: Florian Wirtz (Midfielder) - The German sensation is finding his feet and will be the primary source of creativity in Salah's absence.
- Liverpool: Hugo Ekitike (Forward) - Tasked with leading the line, his movement and clinical finishing will be crucial against a depleted Leeds backline.
- Leeds United: Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Forward) - In red-hot form with seven goals in his last six games; he is the ultimate aerial threat.
- Leeds United: Brenden Aaronson (Midfielder) - The creative engine for Leeds, his ability to transition quickly will be key to their counter-attacking strategy.
🎯 The Key Battlegrounds
- The Midfield Engine Room: Ryan Gravenberch vs. Ethan Ampadu. The battle for control in the center will determine which side dictates the tempo of the game.
- Aerial Warfare: Virgil van Dijk vs. Dominic Calvert-Lewin. This physical duel in the box will be decisive, especially given Leeds' recent success from crosses.
- Width and Pace: Jeremie Frimpong’s overlapping runs against Gabriel Gudmundsson will be a vital outlet for Liverpool to break down the Leeds block.
🔮 Prediction and Final Word
While Leeds United are in exceptional form and have already held Liverpool once this season, Anfield is a different beast. Liverpool’s superior depth and the tactical stability shown in recent weeks should see them through. Leeds will likely find the net through the clinical Calvert-Lewin, but the Reds' attacking variety might just overwhelm the visitors in the second half.
Predicted Score: Liverpool 3 - 1 Leeds United
Will the Reds start 2026 with a statement win, or can the Peacocks pull off a New Year's shock? Kick-off is tonight at 11:00 PM IST!
Would you like me to provide the official starting XI for both teams as soon as they are announced at Anfield?
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