Newcastle and Liverpool are closing the second round of the Premier League at St. James’ Park, home of Newcastle.
Facts
- Newcastle defeated Liverpool 2-1 in the League Cup final last March. However, their last league win against the Reds was back in December 2015, when they won 2-0 at home. Since then, they’ve lost 12 out of 17 games.
- Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has won just one of his 18 league games against Liverpool, that as Bournemouth manager back in December 2016 (4-3 at home), losing 14 times.
- Liverpool forward Mo Salah is the all-time active scorer of the matchup, scoring ten times in 16 games for Liverpool.
Betting Tip: Newcastle - Liverpool
Newcastle might not have won the opener, and they might struggle with their attacking output, but they remain an excellent team. Still, Liverpool’s talent and quality up front is a difference maker, combined with their excellent track record vs the Magpies. Our pick is Liverpool to win.
- Prediction: Liverpool to win
- Odds: 2.20 (at the time of writing)
- Stake: 6
Newcastle
A single point was all that Newcastle were able to get from their visit to Aston Villa in the opener, a goalless draw. The Magpies have every right to feel that they could’ve gotten something more, as they were the better team for most of the game.
They created nice chances in the first half with Elanga and Gordon, while they were unable to take advantage of the numerical superiority they enjoyed for the last 24 minutes of the game after Konsa’s sending off.
There is an Alexander Isak-shaped gap plaguing Newcastle. The Swede, fresh off a 23-goal Premier League season, remains away from the team as he is seeking a transfer to Liverpool. His clinical finishing is what can solve the Magpies' persistent attacking problems, as they’ve struggled to score through the preseason despite creating chances.
Despite all that, Newcastle are hopeful that things will be different at St. James’ Park, a place that was their significant advantage in last season’s run for a top-5 spot. At the same time, they are looking to acquire forward Wissa from Brentford.
Liverpool
The title defence started off well for Liverpool, as they defeated Bournemouth at home, 4-2. That score, however, is not entirely reflective of the dramatic way the Reds secure the win. They held a two-goal lead from the 49th minute onwards thanks to Ekitike’s and Gakpo’s goals.
After that, however, they appeared to be slowing down, conceding twice in a 13-minute span. Nevertheless, they were able to keep up the pressure after that and eventually grab the winner (88’) with Chiesa, who came in off the bench, before Mohamed Salah added the cherry on top late in stoppage time.
Naturally, the winning start to the season is exactly what Arne Slot hoped for. Liverpool’s impressive offensive firepower was in full view, and newcomer Ekitike scored his second goal in two games, while Salah and Gakpo are their consistently productive selves.
There is, however, cause for concern regarding the team’s defensive performances. The four goals conceded in two games show just how vulnerable the team is, especially in the counterattack.
With that in mind, there are rumours that the team is looking to acquire a central defender, with Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi being the top target, as well as a rugged defensive midfielder. There is also progress in the Isak saga, and Liverpool still hopes to acquire the biggest star of their upcoming opponent.
