EPL 2018, Chelsea vs Liverpool- Pre-match report
What's the story
After Eden Hazard's stunner helped Chelsea beat Liverpool in their EFL Cup match, the two teams meet again tonight in top-flight football. This time, Chelsea will play host to Klopp's team and it is the most awaited match of the Premier League, this term. High-pressing vs rapid passing- which will emerge victorious? Here we present to you our detailed match preview.
Facts
Interesting facts to gear you up for the match
Liverpool have lost the most number of league games against Manchester United (28) and the second-highest against Chelsea (20). If Liverpool win this match, this will be the second time in their long history that Liverpool would emerge victorious in first seven straight league matches. Olivier Giroud has a fine record against Liverpool, scoring five goals in his last six starts against them.
Chelsea
Team news from the hosts' corner?
Antonio Rudiger, Pedro, and Ruben are doubtful to start but would be given late fitness tests. Chelsea will be desperate to win the encounter as a loss would see them fall five points behind Liverpool. It is expected that Andreas Christensen will be fit to take to the field tonight. Sarri might play with a 4-1-2-2-1 formation with Giroud being the lone striker.
Liverpool
What about the Merseyside team?
Virgil van Dijk's rib injury might keep him out of action while Alexander-Arnold and Wijnaldum will be starting the match after being out of action in the EFL Cup match. Dejan Lovren might find his name in the starting line-up once again in Virgil van Dijk's absence. Klopp might field a 4-1-2-2-1 formation as well, with Salah, Mane and Firmino leading the attack.
TV listing
Predicted line-up and TV listing
Chelsea: Kepa, Alonso, Luiz, Gary, Azpilicueta, Kovacic, Jorginho, Kante, Hazard, Giroud, Willian. Liverpool: Alisson, Robertson, Lovren, Gomez, Alexander-Arnold, Milner, Henderson, Wijnaldum, Mane, Firmino, Salah. The match starts from 12:30 AM and can be watched on Star Sports 1 or Star Sports HD, and can also be live-streamed on Hotstar.