Liverpool vs Leeds United Preview & Prediction

Premier League New Year’s Day Clash at Anfield

Liverpool vs Leeds United Preview & Prediction The Premier League begins 2026 with a classic English fixture as Liverpool host Leeds United at Anfield on Thursday, 1 January 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 17:30 GMT. This New Year’s Day encounter brings together two sides in strong form and promises goals, intensity and drama.

Liverpool currently sit 4th in the Premier League with 32 points from 18 matches, riding a four-game winning streak in all competitions. Leeds United, placed 16th with 20 points, arrive unbeaten in their last five league matches, showing resilience since promotion.

Following an entertaining 3–3 draw at Elland Road in December, this rematch has all the ingredients of a high-scoring contest in one of English football’s most historic rivalries.

Where to Watch Liverpool vs Leeds United (UK)

UK viewers can watch the match live on:

Sky Sports Main Event
Sky Sports Premier League

Live coverage begins ahead of kick-off, with full analysis and post-match reaction.

Match Overview

Liverpool’s Current Form

Under Arne Slot, Liverpool have shown impressive adaptability in the Premier League. While defensive issues — particularly from set pieces — remain a concern, their attacking output has kept them competitive.

Goals scored: 30
Goals conceded: 26
Recent form: Four consecutive wins
Home advantage: Strong Anfield record

Liverpool’s New Year’s Day home record is especially notable, having remained unbeaten in league matches played at Anfield on 1 January for decades.

A recent 2–1 victory over Wolves further highlighted their momentum heading into this festive fixture.

Leeds United’s Momentum

Leeds United have exceeded expectations following promotion under Daniel Farke. Their five-game unbeaten Premier League run includes valuable results against established top-flight sides.

However, their away form remains a concern:

Away points: 5 from 8 matches
Strength: Quick transitions and counter-attacking football

The reverse fixture showcased Leeds’ attacking threat, as they matched Liverpool blow-for-blow in a six-goal thriller.

Team News & Injury Updates

Liverpool Team News

Liverpool report no new injuries following the Wolves match, but several key players remain unavailable:

Joe Gomez – hamstring
Wataru Endo – ankle
Giovanni Leoni – ACL
Mohamed Salah – on international duty (AFCON)

The return of Dominik Szoboszlai from suspension strengthens midfield options, while new signings Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz continue to impress.

Leeds United Team News

Leeds face defensive challenges ahead of the Anfield trip:

Joe Rodon – ankle injury
Sean Longstaff – calf
Daniel James – hamstring

Manager Daniel Farke may be forced to reposition Ethan Ampadu into central defence to cover absences.

Predicted Line-ups

Liverpool (4-2-3-1)

Alisson;
Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez;
Gravenberch, Jones;
Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Wirtz;
Ekitike

Leeds United (4-2-3-1)

Perri;
Bogle, Struijk, Bijol, Gudmundsson;
Ampadu, Tanaka;
Aaronson, Stach, Okafor;
Calvert-Lewin

These formations highlight Liverpool’s creative midfield depth and Leeds’ reliance on quick transitions.

Head-to-Head Record

Total meetings: 124
Liverpool wins: 63
Leeds wins: 29
Draws: 32

Liverpool are unbeaten in 14 of their last 15 matches against Leeds. However, Leeds claimed a 2–1 win at Anfield in 2022, proving they can upset the odds.

Recent meetings have been goal-heavy, with over 2.5 goals landing in the last five Premier League clashes between the sides.

Key Players to Watch

Liverpool

Hugo Ekitike – Five goals in his last four league matches
Florian Wirtz – Creative hub capable of unlocking deep defences
Dominik Szoboszlai – Energy and vertical passing on return

Leeds United

Dominic Calvert-Lewin – Scored in six consecutive Premier League games
Brenden Aaronson – Key playmaker with assists and pressing intensity

Individual duels across midfield and in the final third could determine the outcome.

Liverpool vs Leeds United Prediction

Liverpool enter the match as favourites due to:

Home advantage at Anfield
Superior squad depth
Strong current momentum

Leeds are expected to compete aggressively and may find the net, but Liverpool’s quality should prevail.

Predicted score: Liverpool 3–1 Leeds United
Win probabilities:

Liverpool: 51%
Draw: 23%
Leeds: 26%

Betting Tips (UK)

Liverpool to win
Over 2.5 goals
Both teams to score
Anytime goalscorer: Hugo Ekitike or Dominic Calvert-Lewin

Always gamble responsibly and check the latest odds.

Final Thoughts

This New Year’s Day Premier League clash at Anfield promises entertainment, goals and intensity. Liverpool will aim to cement their top-four position, while Leeds seek another statement result in their survival push. A compelling way to start 2026 for football fans.