Liverpool look set for another Anfield comeback, but can Spurs hold their nerve and break their long-standing curse?
Image credit: Liverpool FC
The stage is set for a thrilling second-leg showdown as Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur face off in the EFL Cup semi-final at Anfield.
With Spurs leading 1-0 from the first leg, the pressure is on for both sides—Liverpool need a comeback, while Tottenham seek to break their long-standing Anfield curse.
The first leg at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium ended in a dramatic 1-0 win for Spurs, courtesy of Lucas Bergvall’s late strike.
However, the match wasn’t without controversy—Bergvall was fortunate to stay on the pitch after a reckless challenge that could have seen him sent off.
Despite this, Spurs took the lead and now have the upper hand heading into the return fixture.
For Liverpool, it was an uncharacteristically poor performance. Arne Slot’s men struggled to impose themselves, and now, they must deliver a much-improved display if they want to keep their dreams of another EFL Cup title alive.
Liverpool’s Fortress: Anfield’s Unbeaten Streak
Liverpool have been in sensational form at home this season.
They are unbeaten in 15 consecutive matches at Anfield, scoring at least two goals in every game since their last home defeat to Nottingham Forest in September.
This stat alone should worry Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham, who haven’t won at Anfield since 2011.
Over the past 14 meetings at this venue, Spurs have managed only three draws, making this an incredibly difficult task for them.
However, Postecoglou remains optimistic.
His side has shown resilience in recent weeks, and with a potential final against Newcastle United instead of Manchester City, Spurs know this is their best chance in years to win silverware.
Liverpool’s Attacking Power vs. Tottenham’s Defensive Struggles
Liverpool’s attacking firepower has been crucial this season. With Mohamed Salah, Luis Díaz, and Cody Gakpo leading the charge, they have been relentless in front of goal.
Salah, in particular, proved his worth again last weekend, netting a brace against Bournemouth in a crucial 2-0 Premier League win.
On the other hand, Tottenham’s defense remains shaky. While they have kept four clean sheets in their last eight matches, they have also been vulnerable against stronger opposition.
Their recent defensive frailties against Everton and Leicester City raise concerns about whether they can withstand Liverpool’s relentless pressure.
Injury News: Key Players Missing for Both Sides
Liverpool will likely be without Trent Alexander-Arnold, who suffered a thigh injury in the Bournemouth match.
Joe Gomez is also ruled out, but Diogo Jota and Curtis Jones are fit again, providing much-needed squad depth.
For Tottenham, the absence of Radu Dragusin (season-ending knee injury) is a major blow.
While Micky van de Ven is set to return, Spurs are still missing key players, including Cristian Romero and Dominic Solanke, who remain sidelined.
Predicted Lineups
- Liverpool: Alisson; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Salah, Diaz, Gakpo
- Tottenham Hotspur: Kinsky; Pedro Porro, Van de Ven, Davies, Gray; Bergvall, Bissouma, Bentancur; Kulusevski, Richarlison, Son
Prediction: Liverpool 5-1 Tottenham
While Tottenham enter this match with a lead, Liverpool’s dominance at Anfield makes them overwhelming favorites.
All the action from a nine-goal thriller 🆚 Tottenham 🎬🔴 #TOTLIV pic.twitter.com/bXuJazx4Vk
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) December 22, 2024
Spurs have struggled to contain elite attacks, and with Liverpool in ruthless form, a goal-heavy victory for the Reds seems likely.
Can Spurs defy the odds and hold on for a place in the final, or will Liverpool complete another famous Anfield comeback? All eyes will be on Thursday night.