Liverpool are trying to regain stability after a turbulent stretch of defeats, while Sunderland arrive at Anfield enjoying a surprisingly strong season so far. This meeting brings two teams with contrasting forms but equally high stakes.
Liverpool desperate to avoid rare home slump
Liverpool finally breathed again after the 2-0 win away at West Ham, a result that temporarily eased the pressure following several disappointing losses. Their situation at Anfield, however, is uncharacteristically fragile - the Reds have lost their last two home matches, something rarely seen in recent years. History strongly suggests that a third consecutive home defeat is unlikely, and Liverpool’s attack generally responds well after setbacks. Another notable trend: Liverpool have not drawn a single match this season, which usually correlates with open, high-event games.
Sunderland solid but low-scoring away from home
Sunderland enjoy a surprisingly high sixth place and enter this round one point ahead of Liverpool. Still, their form has cooled: three matches without a win before they edged Bournemouth 3-2. Away from home, the team’s profile changes significantly. Five of their six away matches have featured under 2.5 goals, and all six have finished under 3.5, often with a more cautious and compact approach. Even so, Sunderland have shown they can strike in big stadiums, having previously won away at Chelsea and Nottingham Forest.
Prediction: Over 2.5 goals
Despite Sunderland’s generally low-scoring away record, the dynamics of this specific matchup point toward more goals: [list]
Sunderland, while cautious away, have shown capability to contribute offensively in challenging venues.
With Liverpool pushed to be proactive and Sunderland capable of exploiting transitions, the likelihood of a more open contest increases.
