The Daily Star Ireland
Liverpool have had a fantastic start to their season in all competitions, not having lost a match since September 2024. This fine run of form was finally brought to an end recently by Tottenham in a very controversial 1-0 defeat in the cup, with a return leg still to come. In the FA Cup, Liverpool thrashed Accrington 4-0 to keep themselves in the running for multiple titles this season. Currently leading the Premier League comfortably over Arsenal, Liverpool also leads their Champions League group and has won all six matches. A victory against LOSC tonight would cement their position at the top.
Lille, who are currently 5th in Ligue 1, have not tasted defeat in over three months but have suffered consecutive draws against Nantes (1-1) and Auxerre (0-0). These disappointing performances prompted coach Bruno Genesio to attack some players for their lack of commitment. Despite this, Lille has been performing well against the top teams, beating Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid, and drawing with Juventus, placing them in a good position for the Champions League Round of 16.
Liverpool’s squad is near enough to full capacity, with only Joe Gomez injured for the match while Jota, Chiesa, Bradley, and Konaté are back available for selection. Alisson in goal is the usual call one, with the regular back four to include Konaté and Van Dijk at center-back. Gravenberch has earned his spot in midfield, whereas up front, Díaz and Gakpo start over others alongside Salah. Salah is in top form, with 18 goals and 13 assists in 19 Premier League matches, plus 2 goals with 4 assists in the Champions League.
Lille is without Tiago Santos, Umtiti, and Fernandez-Pardo through injuries, and the absence of midfielder Bentaleb due to heart issues means he has not played yet this season. Winger Zhegrova is fit, though; he has netted eight times in all competitions so far. Midfielder E. Mbappé will be back soon. Probable lineup: Defender Diakité, midfielder André, and striker Jonathan David-who has 11 league goals and four Champions League goals-will play for sure.
Prediction
Lille has indeed struggled a great deal in their away games this season, conceding 10 goals and picking no points from their last four top-flight road games. Liverpool, meanwhile, have emerged victorious in 10 of their last 14 home outings in elite competitions. They have not conceded a goal in six home matches. If Liverpool’s attack can exploit these defensive frailties of Lille’s, then this should be a home victory.
Prediction: Liverpool 2 : 1 Lille
