The stakes couldn’t be higher as Aston Villa and Liverpool collide in a Premier League showdown that could secure Villa’s long-awaited return to the UEFA Champions League, while also marking the twilight of Jurgen Klopp’s illustrious reign at Anfield.
With a four-point cushion over Tottenham Hotspur, Villa find themselves in the driver’s seat for a coveted top-four finish, a feat they haven’t achieved in over four decades. However, their recent wobbles have injected a dose of uncertainty, leaving the door ajar for a Liverpool side determined to bid farewell to their iconic manager in grand fashion.
Here’s what you need to know before the highly-anticipated clash.
When and Where to Watch
- Date: Monday, May 13 | Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Venue: Villa Park — Birmingham, England
- TV: USA Network | Live Stream: Fubo (try for free)
- Odds: Aston Villa +320; Draw +350; Liverpool -145
Narratives on the Line
Aston Villa: Perched precariously in fourth place, Villa’s Champions League dreams hang in the balance. Since their seismic 2-0 triumph over Arsenal last month, Unai Emery’s men have mustered just one win in their last six outings, a worrying trend that has cast doubts over their staying power. Their recent 6-2 aggregate defeat to Olympiacos in the UEFA Europa Conference League semi-finals only heightened concerns about their ability to handle the pressure cooker.
With no new injury concerns, Villa’s talismanic figures like Ollie Watkins and Matty Cash are expected to lead the charge. Watkins, in particular, will be tasked with spearheading a revival in attack, as Villa have drawn blanks in their last two games. However, their eight-goal haul in the previous six matches should provide a glimmer of hope, especially against a Liverpool backline that has shown vulnerabilities throughout the season.
Liverpool: While the Reds’ trophy cabinet will only be graced by the Carabao Cup this term, Klopp’s final act at the Anfield helm promises to be a captivating spectacle. Despite their inconsistent form, with just two wins in their last five games, Liverpool’s 4-2 triumph over Tottenham last week hinted at a potential resurgence, fueled by the desire to send their beloved manager off in style.
With nine goals in their last five outings, Liverpool’s attacking prowess remains undeniable, regardless of the personnel Klopp deploys. However, their porous defense, which has conceded eight goals during the same period, remains a glaring concern, reflecting the team’s overall unpredictability in recent weeks.
Prediction
With both teams exhibiting bouts of brilliance and moments of vulnerability, predicting the outcome of this high-stakes encounter is a precarious endeavor. While Villa’s Champions League aspirations add an extra layer of intensity, Liverpool’s desire to bid farewell to Klopp in style could prove equally potent. Expect an enthralling, goal-laden affair that encapsulates the unpredictability of both sides. Pick: Aston Villa 2, Liverpool 2
