In their first match of the new year, 2025, struggling Manchester United will visit their high-flying arch-rivals and Premier League table leaders Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, January 4. The Africa Football’s editor Allan Damba looks into the upcoming clash.
Liverpool have established themselves as the most dominant team in the league, sitting comfortably at the top with 45 points, eight clear of second-placed Nottingham Forest. They head into Sunday’s derby on the back of a commanding 5-0 victory over West Ham last weekend.
With the season approaching its midway point, manager Arne Slot’s side has lost only once in the Premier League this campaign. Confidence is running high, especially after their 3-0 demolition of Manchester United in the first round, powered by a Luis Díaz brace and a goal from Mohamed Salah.
In contrast, Manchester United have endured a miserable season so far, suffering four consecutive defeats. Their latest setback came against Newcastle United, who secured a 2-0 win at Old Trafford on Monday.
Under manager Ruben Amorim, United sit 14th in the table with just 22 points from 19 matches. A defeat at Anfield could push them dangerously close to the relegation zone.
Our Prediction for Liverpool vs Manchester United
This match features two teams with vastly different ambitions. Liverpool are chasing the league title, while Manchester United are fighting to stay in the top half of the table.
Liverpool have been scoring goals for fun, netting 18 in their last five games. Meanwhile, Manchester United’s defense has been porous, conceding 12 goals in their most recent five matches.
Predictions and Odds:
• A home win (Liverpool) is priced at 1.24 on 1xBet.
• For better odds, betting on Over 2.5 goals is available at 1.35 on 1xBet.
Liverpool Recent Form Analysis
Liverpool have won four of their last five games in all competitions. Their only slip-up came on December 14 when they drew 2-2 with Fulham at Anfield. The Reds’ last Premier League defeat was back in September, a 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest.
• Last Five Games: 4 wins, 1 draw
• Latest Result: West Ham 0-5 Liverpool
Manchester United Recent Form Analysis
Manchester United have lost their last four games across all competitions, scoring only three goals and conceding 11. Their last win came on December 15, when they beat Manchester City 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium.
• Last Five Games: 1 win, 4 losses
• Latest Result: Manchester United 0-2 Newcastle
Player to Watch
Mohamed Salah: Salah is currently among the most in-form players in Europe, with an incredible tally of 20 goals and 17 assists in 26 appearances across all competitions this season. The Egyptian leads the Premier League in both goals (17) and assists (13). Liverpool will once again look to their talisman to make the difference against Manchester United.
Best Odds and Betting Tips
Here are the top betting tips for this match:
• Home win (Liverpool) with odds of 1.24 on 1xBet
• Over 2.5 goals at odds of 1.35 on 1xBet
