Liverpool vs Newcastle on 31 January
As the Premier League season intensifies, Liverpool and Newcastle face off on January 31, 2026, in a pivotal clash at Anfield. Both teams are battling to solidify their positions in the league, with Liverpool chasing a top-four spot and Newcastle aiming to climb higher in the mid-table. With so much at stake, this promises to be a thrilling contest that will showcase the tactical battle between two teams with very different playing styles.
Liverpool: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Liverpool enters this match with a mixed run of results in their last five games, picking up two wins, two losses, and a draw. Their high-pressing game remains the core of their tactical approach, with Jurgen Klopp's side looking to dominate possession and impose their attacking play. The Reds have averaged 60% possession in their recent games, showing their ability to control the tempo. However, their vulnerability in transitions has been evident, particularly when playing against teams that can exploit space on the counter.
Defensively, Liverpool has conceded 1.4 goals per game in their last five matches, a statistic that Klopp will want to improve upon. Their pressing game is as intense as ever, with 27 pressing actions per game, but they have struggled against teams that are clinical in transition. In terms of attacking play, they have maintained a high xG (expected goals) of 1.8 per match, but their finishing has been inconsistent.
Key player Mohamed Salah continues to be the engine of their attack, contributing with both goals and assists. Virgil van Dijk remains crucial in defense, while Alisson Becker’s shot-stopping ability will be key if Newcastle threatens on the counter. Injuries to James Milner and Diogo Jota may affect their squad depth, but Liverpool's starting XI remains formidable.
Newcastle: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Newcastle arrives at Anfield with a solid record of two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five matches. Under Eddie Howe, Newcastle have been a well-organized team, focusing on a disciplined defensive structure and direct counter-attacking play. They are less possession-oriented compared to Liverpool, averaging 48% possession in their recent games. Instead, their strength lies in quickly transitioning from defense to attack, utilizing the pace of players like Allan Saint-Maximin and Alexander Isak.
Newcastle’s defensive solidity has been impressive, conceding only 1.0 goals per game in the last five. They have maintained a compact shape, making it difficult for teams to break them down. However, their pressing actions are less aggressive than Liverpool's, with only 18 pressing actions per match. In attack, they rely on quick transitions and set pieces, with an xG of 1.2 per game, indicating they don’t dominate possession but can be clinical in their chances.
Bruno Guimarães remains their key midfield figure, controlling the game and linking defense to attack. Saint-Maximin is pivotal on the wing, providing width and pace, while Isak is the main goal-scoring threat. The absence of Joe Willock due to injury will affect their midfield balance, but their defensive setup should still remain strong.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
In their last five encounters, Liverpool has dominated, winning four of the five matches, with the most recent meeting ending in a 2-0 victory at St. James' Park. However, Newcastle has shown resilience, and their 1-1 draw at Anfield in the 2024/2025 season is still fresh in the minds of both teams. While Liverpool has had the upper hand historically, Newcastle has managed to disrupt their rhythm in key moments, particularly with their solid defensive displays and quick counter-attacks.
The psychological battle will be significant in this match, as Liverpool seeks to bounce back from recent setbacks, while Newcastle will aim to exploit their confidence on the counter. Despite Liverpool’s superior squad, Newcastle’s compact defensive approach will give them hope of frustrating their opponents.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the most crucial battles will be between Liverpool's high press and Newcastle's counter-attacking setup. Liverpool’s full-backs, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson, will need to push forward to support the attack, but they must also be mindful of the threat posed by Saint-Maximin and Isak on the break. If Liverpool’s defense is caught out of shape, Newcastle’s pace on the counter will be a major weapon.
Another key battle will be in the midfield, where Guimarães will look to dominate the tempo against Liverpool’s midfield trio. How well Liverpool can press and disrupt Newcastle's build-up play will be pivotal in determining the flow of the game. Additionally, set pieces could prove decisive for both sides, as both have shown the ability to create dangerous opportunities from dead-ball situations.
Match Scenario and Prediction
This match will likely see Liverpool dominate possession, but Newcastle’s ability to exploit space on the counter will keep them in the game. With Salah, Firmino, and Nunez leading the attack, Liverpool will look to break down Newcastle’s compact defense, but the Magpies' solid structure and quick transitions will make them a dangerous threat on the break. A tightly contested match is expected, with Liverpool pushing forward and Newcastle looking to capitalize on set pieces and quick counters.
Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Newcastle. Despite Newcastle’s solid defense and counter-attacking threats, Liverpool’s quality in attack should see them edge out a victory. Expect a high-intensity match with goals likely coming from set pieces or moments of individual brilliance.
Final Thoughts
This game will be a test of Liverpool's attacking depth and Newcastle's resilience. The key will be whether Liverpool can break down Newcastle’s defense without being caught on the counter. Can Liverpool regain their form and secure the points? Or will Newcastle frustrate them again, as they did last season?
