Frank Christian
In an unexpected matchup for the Premier League title race, Liverpool, currently leading the league, will take on fourth-place Chelsea at Anfield on Sunday.
While most speculators anticipated Manchester City and Arsenal to dominate the title conversation, both teams find themselves just one point behind Liverpool after seven matches of the 2024/25 season. Liverpool, under the guidance of Arne Slot, has adopted a more defensive approach, conceding a mere two goals thus far, ranking them among the league’s best in defense.
Chelsea is closely trailing with 14 points, having bounced back impressively after an initial loss to Manchester City. The Blues have demonstrated their offensive prowess by scoring 16 goals, narrowly behind the league leaders, which poses a significant test for Liverpool’s defensive resilience.
This early-season clash is crucial for determining which team is a genuine title contender and which may fall short as the season progresses.
Match Prediction and Odds for Liverpool vs. Chelsea
- Predicted Result: Draw (+333)
- Score Forecast: 1-1
Although odds favor Liverpool, questions linger regarding the sustainability of their newfound defensive strength and Chelsea’s offensive momentum, particularly with striker Nicolas Jackson, and how coach Enzo Maresca balances offense without compromising defense.
With these uncertainties, picking a clear winner is challenging, suggesting that betting on a draw might offer good value given the odds’ tilt towards Liverpool.
| BetMGM (USA) |
|
| Liverpool Win | -150 |
| Draw | +333 |
| Chelsea Win | +350 |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes: -225 No: +155 |
| Over / Under 3.5 Goals | Over: -105 Under: -135 |
| Liverpool -0.5 Goals | -165 |
| Chelsea +0.5 Goals | +115 |
Match Details for Liverpool vs. Chelsea
- Date: Sunday, October 20, 2024
- Kickoff: 4:30 p.m. local (11:30 a.m. ET / 8:30 a.m. PT)
- Venue: Anfield Stadium (Liverpool, England)
- Referee: John Brooks, VAR: Michael Oliver
- Previous Encounter: Chelsea 0-1 Liverpool (Feb. 25, 2024 | EFL Cup)
Best Bet for Liverpool vs. Chelsea
- Recommendation: Under 3.0 Total Goals
- Odds: +125 (DraftKings)
Both teams have a tendency to score a high quantity of goals, which has set the expectations for this match quite high, with most odds indicating totals between 3.25 and 3.5. However, this may not account for Liverpool’s adjusted defensive strategy under Slot.
Given the circumstances, fatigue from international breaks could come into play for both teams. Liverpool suffered their only loss this season following an international break, producing a low xG just after the September fixtures.
Similarly, Chelsea’s recent performance showed their coach’s cautious approach, emphasizing defense over an all-out attack despite having opportunities to score more goals in their previous match against Nottingham Forest.
Historical matchups suggest a low-scoring encounter. Excluding a 4-1 victory for Liverpool earlier in the year, the teams have combined for just three goals across their last six meetings. Additionally, Liverpool’s goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher, has provided solid support during Alisson’s absences.
Prop Bet for Liverpool vs. Chelsea
- Pick: First Half to Score Most Goals
- Odds: +195 (BetMGM)
Both teams excel in first-half scoring while struggling in the latter stages of the match. Liverpool and Chelsea have seen numerous goals in the first half but have failed to maintain the same performance after half-time this season, with Liverpool notably having a poor performance ratio in the second half.
Notably, Liverpool has yet to allow a goal in the first half, demonstrating a strong capability to start strong but needing to maintain this intensity if they are serious title contenders.
