Kick-off: Sunday, 22 December 2024, at 4:30 PM,
On Sunday, 22 December 2024, at 4:30 PM, Tottenham Hotspur will host Liverpool at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for matchday 18 of the Premier League. Liverpool currently lead the table and aim to return to winning ways after two consecutive draws.
Tottenham, meanwhile, sit in mid-table and are striving to secure crucial points against the league leaders. A thrilling duel is expected, with Liverpool as favourites, but Tottenham’s home strength should not be underestimated.
Form analysis: Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham Hotspur are currently in 10th place in the Premier League table with 23 points. A record of seven wins, two draws, and seven losses indicates an inconsistent season. In their last five matches, the Spurs recorded two wins, one draw, and two defeats. Home performances have been similarly mixed, with two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five games at their own stadium.
Offensively, Tottenham rely on their captain Heung-Min Son, who regularly impresses with his performances. James Maddison has also proven to be effective in midfield, shaping play creatively. In defence, Cristian Romero and Ben Davies provide stability. However, in recent weeks, the team has shown weaknesses against stronger opponents, particularly in defence. Tottenham will need a focused performance to compete against the league leaders.
Key players: Heung-Min Son: The Spurs’ captain is not only the team’s top scorer but also one of their most important attacking forces. His speed and finishing ability consistently create danger. James Maddison: The midfield strategist is responsible for creative moments at Tottenham. His precise passes and technical skills regularly create scoring opportunities. Cristian Romero: The defensive leader ensures the necessary stability at the back and is a key figure, particularly in set-piece situations.
Form analysis: FC Liverpool
Liverpool lead the Premier League with 36 points, resulting from 11 wins, three draws, and one defeat. Liverpool are particularly strong away from home, recording three wins and two draws in their last five away matches.
Liverpool’s attack, spearheaded by Mohamed Salah, remains one of the most dangerous in the league. Salah is once again in top form with his goals and assists. He is supported by Darwin Núñez, who is increasingly establishing himself as an important attacking force. In midfield, Dominik Szoboszlai provides creativity and dynamism, while the defence, led by Virgil van Dijk, continues to perform with customary stability. Liverpool will strive to extend their lead at the top with another victory.
Key players: Mohamed Salah: The Reds’ top player is crucial not only for his goals but also for his assists. His speed and experience make him a constant threat to opposing defences. Darwin Núñez: The physically strong forward has established himself as a key player in attack, creating many dangerous situations with his presence. Virgil van Dijk: The defensive leader and captain is not only a rock at the back but also dangerous during set pieces.
Head-to-head comparison
The record of the last five meetings between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool favours the Reds. Liverpool have won three of the last five encounters, while Tottenham have emerged victorious once; one match ended in a draw. The most recent meeting in the 2023/24 season ended in a 4–2 home victory for Liverpool. The history shows a slight dominance for Liverpool, but Tottenham have the potential to deliver surprises, especially at home.
Tactical analysis
Tottenham Hotspur: Spurs are likely to operate in a 4-2-3-1 system, focusing on a stable defence and quick counter-attacks. The full-backs will attempt to support the attack down the flanks. In the centre, James Maddison will pull the creative strings, while Heung-Min Son leads the line in attack. The defence must remain compact to neutralise Liverpool’s rapid offensive plays.
FC Liverpool: Liverpool will likely line up in a flexible 4-3-3 system, emphasising possession and swift offensive transitions. Mohamed Salah and Darwin Núñez will form a dangerous attacking duo, supported by Dominik Szoboszlai driving the game from midfield. The defence, led by Virgil van Dijk, must stay solid to repel Tottenham’s attacking efforts.
Predicted line-ups:
- Tottenham Hotspur (4-2-3-1): Vicario – Porro, Romero, Davies, Udogie – Højbjerg, Sarr – Kulusevski, Maddison, Son – Richarlison
- FC Liverpool (4-3-3): Alisson – Alexander-Arnold, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson – Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Jones – Salah, Núñez, Díaz
Betting options and odds:
- Both teams to score + under 4.5 goals (Odds: 2.30): Both teams possess strong attacking options, but a high-scoring yet controlled match is expected.
- Liverpool to win (Odds: 2.00): Liverpool enter this game as league leaders and will look to assert their form.
- Over 2.5 goals (Odds: 1.85): Given the quality of both teams, particularly in attack, a high-scoring game is likely.
Bet Tip & Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur – FC Liverpool (22.12.2024)
Liverpool go into this match as slight favourites, but Tottenham will do everything to achieve a positive result in front of their home crowd. The individual quality of the Reds, however, is expected to make the difference in the end.
- Our tip: Both teams to score + under 4.5 goals (Odds: 2.30)
- Predicted score: 1–2 to Liverpool
OUR Prediction
Tottenham Hotspur – FC Liverpool (22.12.2024)
| Both teams to score & under 4.5 goals | Odds: 2,30 |
