Sabasports Match Preview
FA Cup: Arsenal vs Liverpool
Kickoff Time: 2024-01-08 00:30 (HKT)
Source:REUTERS/CARL RECINE
In the last round of the Premier League, Arsenal suffered a 1-2 defeat
away to Fulham, marking their second consecutive loss in the league. As a
result, Arsenal now find themselves five points behind league leaders
Liverpool. Furthermore, Manchester City, who have the same number of points as
Arsenal but with one game in hand, currently hold the advantage due to a
superior goal difference. Arsenal’s biggest issue at the moment revolves around
their lack of reliable center-forwards. When facing opponents who adopt a
defensive approach, the Gunners often struggle to break through and find it
challenging to score goals. Additionally, their defensive stability has been
insufficient, leaving them vulnerable to counterattacks by opposing teams.
In the last round, Liverpool secured a 4-2 victory against Newcastle
United at home, extending their unbeaten run to 13 league games. With
back-to-back wins and consistent performances, Liverpool have maintained a
strong position at the top of the Premier League standings. However, they now
face the challenge of coping without their key player, Mohamed Salah, who has
departed to participate in the African Cup of Nations. Salah’s absence will
undoubtedly have a significant impact on Liverpool. As their most reliable
scorer and playmaker, his contributions are crucial to their attacking prowess.
However, Liverpool still possesses several other dependable goal scorers in
their frontline. While Salah’s absence will be felt, they have enough offensive
firepower to maintain their performance.
Half a month ago, Liverpool and Arsenal played to a 1-1 draw at
Anfield in the league. However, there is an opinion that if the referee had not
intervened, Arsenal might have lost that game. The recent performances of the
two teams have shown a noticeable gap. Arsenal have struggled with issues in
both their attacking and defensive play, and their form has been inconsistent.
Therefore, it may be challenging for Arsenal to defeat Liverpool, especially at
Anfield. Although Mohamed Salah is absent due to his participation in the
African Cup of Nations, Liverpool still possess multiple offensive options.
Additionally, their defensive stability is considered stronger compared to
Arsenal. Considering these factors, it might be difficult for Arsenal to halt
Liverpool’s progress in the FA Cup.
Arsenal’s Last 5 Games: LLDWD
22-12-31 Fulham 2-1 Arsenal
23-12-28 Arsenal 0-2 West Ham Untied
23-12-24 Liverpool 1-1 Arsenal
23-12-17 Arsenal 2-0 Brighton
23-12-13 PSV Eindhoven 1-1 Arsenal
Liverpool’s Last 5 Games: WWDWD
24-01-02 Liverpool 4-2 Newcastle United
23-12-27 Burnley 0-2 Liverpool
23-12-24 Liverpool 1-1 Arsenal
23-12-21 Liverpool 5-1 West Ham United
23-12-18 Liverpol 0-0 Manchester United
Head To Head Record:
23-12-24 Liverpool 1-1 Arsenal
23-04-09 Liverpool 2-2 Arsenal
22-10-09 Arsenal 3-2 Liverpool
22-03-17 Arsenal 0-2 Liverpool
22-01-21 Arsenal 0-2 Liverpool
Prediction: Liverpool to win or
Draw