Liverpool vs Leeds United prediction, H2H and probable lineups - January 1, 2026
One of the fixtures of Matchday 19 in the 2025/26 English Premier League will take place on Thursday, January 1, at Liverpool's legendary Anfield stadium, where Liverpool will host Leeds United. The hosts come into the game in excellent form and are clear favorites, but the visitors are more than capable of putting up a fight. This matchup offers a solid opportunity for a bet with promising odds for success.
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Match preview
Liverpool are closing out the calendar year on a high, having claimed three consecutive victories in the Premier League and four wins across all competitions. Under Arne Slot, the team has become much more structured: tempo control and intelligent pressing have become key elements of their game, especially at Anfield.
The return of Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai has been another huge boost, broadening Liverpool's attacking arsenal and increasing their tactical versatility in the final third. The Reds are increasingly looking to seize the initiative early, score the opening goal, and then manage the game with composure, minimizing risks at their own end.
Leeds arrive in Liverpool on an unbeaten run of five league matches, signaling notable progress for the team. Under Daniel Farke, the side has become more pragmatic and learned how to pick up points even in challenging scenarios.
However, away matches remain a weak spot, and the possible absence of Joe Rodon could further undermine their defensive solidity. Leeds' tendency toward open, attacking football and their willingness to trade goals make them vulnerable against opponents who can set a high tempo from the outset.
Probable lineups
- Liverpool: Becker, Van Dijk, Konate, Kerkez, Frimpong, Jones, Gravenberch, Gakpo, Wirtz, Szoboszlai, Ekitike
- Leeds United: Perry, Ampadu, Bijol, Struijk, Tanaka, Aaronson, Stach, Bogle, Gudmundsson, Calvert-Lewin, Okafor
Match facts and head-to-head
- Both teams have scored in four of the last six head-to-head meetings at Anfield.
- At least three goals have been scored in four of the last six encounters in Liverpool.
- Liverpool have won three consecutive Premier League matches.
Prediction
Liverpool currently look more stable and mature, especially at home. Leeds are capable of causing problems with their energy and fearless play, but controlling the match at Anfield will be an enormous challenge. The most likely scenario is a confident home win in a high-scoring encounter.