Football Prediction | Brentford vs Liverpool | English Premier League | January 18 – Will Liverpool Maintain Their Lead at the Top or Can Brentford Pull Off an Upset?

Premier League action continues as Brentford hosts Liverpool at the Gtech Community Stadium on Thursday, January 18th, 2024, at 9:00 PM (BDT) / IST / 08:30 PM (INR). Brentford will look to exploit their home advantage, while Liverpool will aim to maintain their position in the top four and push for a strong finish to the season under Jürgen Klopp.

Brentford vs Liverpool Form Guide

Brentford

Brentford has been impressive in their attacking play this season, with key strengths in finishing scoring chances and creating chances through balls. Bryan Mbeumo has been crucial for them in front of goal, while Yoane Wissa adds to the attacking firepower. Brentford’s aerial duels are also a notable strength, making them a tough opponent to break down. However, they have struggled at times when defending against skillful players and counter-attacks, which Liverpool’s fast-paced game can exploit.

Liverpool

Liverpool continues to show their dominance, especially in finishing scoring chances and counter-attacks. With Mohamed Salah leading the charge and players like Cody Gakpo and Darwin Núñez offering attacking depth, Liverpool has the tools to punish Brentford. The Reds are strong at defending set-pieces and protecting a lead, although they have occasionally shown vulnerabilities when defending against through-ball attacks.

Brentford vs Liverpool Key Battles

Bryan Mbeumo vs Mohamed Salah

Bryan Mbeumo has been a standout performer for Brentford, scoring 13 goals this season, making him a crucial attacking threat with his pace and finishing ability. Mohamed Salah, with 18 goals, is Liverpool’s main goal-scoring asset and a constant danger on the right wing, known for his dribbling and clinical finishing. This battle between the two top scorers will be pivotal in determining which team can break through defensively.

Yoane Wissa vs Cody Gakpo

Yoane Wissa has contributed 13 goals and assists, playing a key role in Brentford’s offensive play with his movement and ability to score from various situations. Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo, with 8 goals and assists, offers a versatile attacking presence, able to create and finish chances with his technical skills. Both players will look to dictate play for their respective teams, and whoever can support their striker and link up the play will have the upper hand. 

Also read:- Football Prediction | West Ham United vs Crystal Palace | English Premier League | January 18

Brentford vs Liverpool Tactical Outlook

Brentford is expected to play an aggressive, direct style with long balls and attacking down the right, using their pace to challenge Liverpool’s defensive line. However, their weakness in defending counter-attacks could leave them vulnerable if they fail to track back quickly.

Liverpool, on the other hand, will look to dominate possession with their passing game and control the match in the opposition’s half. Klopp’s side will aim to exploit Brentford’s defensive weaknesses, especially on the counter-attack, and look for chances through the middle and on the wings.

Head-to-Head Encounters

Brentford and Liverpool have faced each other six times in recent years, with Liverpool winning five encounters and Brentford winning one. There has been one draw. According to bookmakers, Liverpool are the favorites to win, with odds of 1.45 compared to Brentford’s 6.25 for a win and 4.75 for a draw.

Injury News and Suspensions

Brentford 

Brentford is facing a lengthy list of injuries as they move through the season. Aaron Hickey is out with a hamstring injury and is expected to return by mid-May 2025. Ethan Pinnock is dealing with a knock and is expected back in early February 2025. Gustavo Gomes has a back injury, with a return scheduled for late January 2025, while Thiago Rodrigues is sidelined with a virus and should be available by late January 2025. Joshua Dasilva is also out and is expected to return in mid-February 2025. Kristoffer Ajer is recovering from an ankle injury and is set to return in early February 2025, adding to the injury woes for Thomas Frank’s side.

Liverpool 

Liverpool faces the absence of Joseph Gomez, who is out due to a hamstring injury. His return is expected in early February 2025, leaving Jurgen Klopp with a reduced defensive lineup for the time being. The club will be hoping to navigate through this injury setback without losing too much momentum.

Brentford vs Liverpool Possible Playing Squad

Brentford  

Flekken (GK), Lewis-Potter, Berg, Collins, Roerslev, Janelt, Jensen, Nørgaard, Damsgaard, Wissa, Mbeumo

Liverpool 

Becker (GK), Robertson, Van Dijk, Konaté, Alexander-Arnold, Allister, Gravenberch, Gakpo, Jones, Salah, Núñez

Match Details at a Glance

Match Prediction

Liverpool’s attacking depth and tactical discipline make them the favorites for this match, but Brentford’s resilience at home could make this a tightly contested encounter. Expect both teams to create opportunities, but Liverpool’s attacking prowess should eventually prove decisive.

Score Prediction

A 2-1 victory for Liverpool seems likely, with Mohamed Salah scoring once and Brentford finding a goal through Mbeumo in a closely fought match. 

Disclaimer: This Football prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.