Liverpool vs Leeds United prediction, H2H and probable lineups — 1 January 2026
As part of Matchday 19 in the English Premier League, Liverpool will face Leeds United. The clash is set for Thursday, January 1, with kick-off scheduled for 18:30 Central European Time. I'm offering a bet on the winner of this game.
Match preview
After a brilliant previous season, Liverpool have significantly dropped off in terms of results this campaign. Before Christmas, the Reds found themselves unusually mid-table, and a scandal involving Mohamed Salah erupted within the club.
The Egyptian forward left for the Africa Cup of Nations, but the Reds managed to win two matches without him. Against Tottenham, they benefited from Xavi Simons' sending off, and they narrowly overcame a struggling Wolverhampton side at home.
Getting back to winning ways allowed Liverpool to return to the top four, but talk of a title challenge still seems premature. The gap to Arsenal stands at a hefty ten points, and the uneasy situation between Salah and Slot remains unresolved.
A congested fixture list and a string of crucial matches are clearly not playing into the team's hands as they try to navigate their way out of this situation. Add to that defensive issues and Isaac's injury, and it leaves them on rather shaky ground. Still, fans remain optimistic and hopeful that Slot can restore the team to its former heights.
- See also: Western Sydney Wanderers — Macarthur Prediction, H2H and Probable Lineups — January 1, 2026
Leeds are fighting their own battle in the 2025/26 season amid fierce competition in the middle of the table. Known for their bold style of play, Leeds often play open football and try to press even against sides from the top half of the standings.
This brings entertainment, but also leaves space for opponents to attack. For now, Leeds are keeping clear of the relegation zone, holding 16th place. They have a seven-point cushion over 18th-placed West Ham, so Farke’s side currently feel safe.
Recent positive results are largely down to Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The 28-year-old striker is enjoying arguably the best spell of his career, scoring in six consecutive matches. During this run, Leeds have lost only once and picked up nine points.
Defensively, Leeds have shown certain weaknesses at set pieces and in positional play, especially against teams with strong wide options. It's worth noting that they haven’t managed to keep a clean sheet for four months running.
Match facts
- Liverpool have won four matches in a row.
- Leeds are unbeaten in their last five games.
- Leeds haven't won away from home in three months.
- Liverpool average 1.75 goals per home game, while Leeds average 0.9 goals per away match.
Probable lineups
- Liverpool: Alisson, Kerkez, van Dijk, Konaté, Frimpong, Jones, Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Wirtz, Gakpo, Ekitike.
- Leeds United: Perry, Bijol, Ampadu, Struijk, Gudmundsson, Bogle, Tanaka, Stach, Aaronson, Okafor, Calvert-Lewin.
H2H
- In the last five head-to-head matches, Liverpool have scored 19 goals against Leeds.
- The teams haven't drawn at Anfield since 2001.
Prediction
Leeds are in good form, but still struggle mightily with results away from home. I believe the hosts will take advantage of this and convert their chances in front of goal. My pick is a Liverpool win.
