Liverpool welcome Crystal Palace to Anfield on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, for a League Cup showdown that promises intensity and goals. The Reds enter the fixture as defending champions and favorites, but recent form has been patchy, with three straight league losses denting confidence. Palace, meanwhile, are enjoying a solid start to the season under Oliver Glasner, sitting mid-table and showing resilience in attack. With both sides eager to restore momentum, this tie could offer fireworks under the Anfield lights.
Match Preview
Liverpool began their League Cup campaign with a 2–1 victory over Southampton, showcasing depth and control despite rotation. However, their Premier League form has stumbled — consecutive defeats to Crystal Palace (2–1), Chelsea (2–1), and Manchester United (2–1) exposed defensive lapses and inconsistency in finishing. A 5–1 thrashing at Frankfurt in the Champions League added pressure, but Jürgen Klopp’s men remain a force at Anfield, where they’ve won 15 of their last 20 home games in all competitions.
Crystal Palace, fresh off an FA Cup triumph last season, have evolved into a disciplined, counter-attacking side under Glasner. Their League Cup journey began with a dramatic penalty shootout win over Millwall (1–1 AET), and they’ve since maintained a respectable league record. Despite an away loss at Everton and a 3–3 draw with Bournemouth, the Eagles remain competitive, sitting 8th in the table, just two points behind Liverpool. Palace’s attacking unit, led by Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaïla Sarr, has been lively, while their defensive structure has matured with each game.
Team Form & Recent Results
Liverpool (Last 5 Matches): L–L–L–W–W
- Lost three consecutive Premier League matches.
- Scored in every game across all competitions this season.
- Unbeaten in 10 of their last 11 home League Cup fixtures.
Crystal Palace (Last 5 Matches): D–L–D–W–W
- One defeat in their last five games.
- Averaging 1.6 goals per game in all competitions.
- Only one clean sheet in their last eight away fixtures.
Head-to-Head Record
- Total Meetings (All Competitions): 64
- Liverpool Wins: 40
- Crystal Palace Wins: 12
- Draws: 12
- Last Meeting: Crystal Palace 2–1 Liverpool (Premier League, October 2025)
Liverpool have dominated this fixture historically, especially at Anfield, winning six of the last seven home games against Palace. However, the Eagles’ recent win over the Reds — their first since 2017 — proves they’re no longer pushovers.
Lineups, Injuries & Suspensions
Liverpool Predicted XI (4-3-3):
Kelleher; Bradley, Konaté, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Endo, Elliott, Jones; Chiesa, Isak, Gakpo.
Injuries: Alisson (thigh), Gravenberch (ankle), Frimpong (knee), Leoni (hamstring).
Crystal Palace Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
Johnstone; Clyne, Andersen, Guehi, Mitchell; Hughes, Lerma; Pino, Eze, Sarr; Mateta.
Injuries: Riad (ankle), Doucouré (calf), Kporha (hamstring).
Doubts: Veltman (fitness), Mitchell (knock).
Key Players:
- Alexander Isak (Liverpool): Looking to build confidence after scoring in the previous round.
- Federico Chiesa (Liverpool): Expected to start; offers pace and creativity.
- Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace): Palace’s top scorer this season with 5 goals.
- Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace): The creative hub; capable of unlocking any defense.
Tactical Analysis & Key Battles
Expect Liverpool to dominate possession, using width and overlapping full-backs to stretch Palace’s low block. Klopp may opt for rotation, but the intensity will remain. Isak’s movement between the lines and Chiesa’s pace could be crucial against a physical Palace backline.
Palace, meanwhile, will rely on structured defending and fast counters through Eze and Sarr. Their shape under Glasner often shifts into a compact 4-4-2 when off the ball, allowing them to press selectively and spring forward quickly. The midfield battle — likely between Elliott and Lerma — could define the tempo. If Palace manage to frustrate Liverpool early, their pace on the break might cause problems.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
| Market | Odds |
|---|---|
| Liverpool to Win | 1.45 |
| Draw | 4.50 |
| Crystal Palace to Win | 7.00 |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 1.60 |
| Both Teams to Score (BTTS) | 1.85 |
Top Betting Picks:
- Best Bet: Liverpool to Win & Over 2.5 Goals – the Reds’ home form and attacking depth make this strong value.
- Alternative Value: Both Teams to Score (BTTS) – Liverpool have conceded in 5 straight games, Palace score regularly.
- High-Risk Pick: Correct Score 3–1 Liverpool – reflects the home side’s dominance with Palace likely to grab a consolation.
Featured Snippet Quick Facts:
- Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
- Competition: EFL Cup 2025
- Kickoff: Wednesday, October 29, 20:45 GMT / 21:45 CET / 15:45 ET
- Broadcast: Sky Sports (UK), ESPN+ (US), DAZN (Europe).
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
- Live TV: Sky Sports Football (UK), ESPN+ (US), SuperSport (Africa).
- Streaming: NOW TV, Paramount+, DAZN.
- Kickoff: 20:45 GMT / 21:45 CET / 15:45 ET.
Prediction: Liverpool vs Crystal Palace, EFL Cup 2025
Liverpool’s home dominance and superior depth make them clear favorites. Palace have the weapons to threaten on the counter but lack consistency away from home. Expect the Reds to control possession, create multiple chances, and ultimately secure a confident win.
Final Prediction: Liverpool 3–1 Crystal Palace
Best Bet: Liverpool to Win & Over 2.5 Goals
Alternative Value: Both Teams to Score (BTTS)
Anfield’s energy, coupled with Liverpool’s attacking firepower, should be too much for Palace as the Reds advance to the next round of the League Cup.
