Liverpool vs Lille Prediction & Betting Tips (21 January)

Liverpool are currently having an almost perfect start to the season in all competitions. Undefeated since September 2024, these Reds saw this series end recently against Tottenham in the cup 1-0 in a controversial match, even if there will be a return match. However, in the FA Cup they beat Accrington 4-0, keeping Slot's men in contention to win all competitions. As we recall, the Reds are leaders in the Premier League with a good lead over the Gunners, and leaders of the single C1 group with 6 victories out of 6 matches. A 7th victory against LOSC this evening would allow them to definitively secure first place.

LOSC, undefeated for three and a half months and 5th in Ligue 1, conceded two recent draws: 1-1 against Nantes at home and 0- 0 against Auxerre. These average performances aroused the anger of Bruno Genesio, criticizing the lack of commitment of certain players. However, the Mastiffs shine against the big teams, with victories against Real and Atlético Madrid, as well as a draw against Juventus, placing them in the top 8 and in a good position to consider the 1/8th finals. 

Those absent are gradually returning, notably Jota, Chiesa (cup scorers) and Bradley and Konaté, and only Joe Gomez will miss the match due to an injury. The big team can be lined up, starting with Alisson in the cages, relieved by his solid central defense Konaté-Van Dijk, and the midfielder Gravenberch who is still just as valuable. Up front, there are many options but it has recently been Diaz, Gakpo and especially Salah who have started at the expense of Nunez, Chiesa and Jota. In the best form of his career, Salah has already scored 18 goals and delivered 13 assists in 19 PL matches, with 2 goals and 4 assists in C1. Lille coach Bruno Genesio must cope without his starting right side Tiago Santos, defender Umtiti and young winger Fernandez-Pardo, all still injured. Midfielder Bentaleb, affected by heart problems, has not played this season.

On the other hand, replacement midfielder E. Mbappé is close to a return, while starting winger Zhegrova, author of 8 goals in all competitions, is already available. The team's executives, Diakité (defender), André (midfielder) and David (attacker), should logically start. The Canadian striker already has 11 goals in the league and 4 in the Champions League.