By: Fasika Zelealem
10/01/20, 19:45 PM Kick-Off
2020/21 EFL Cup Fourth Round
The two clubs were just in action against one another at Anfield on Monday night, a game Liverpool dominated and won 3-1. Despite Arsenal taking the lead through Alexandre Lacazette courtesy of a misplaced clearance from Andy Robertson, Liverpool hit back in swift fashion with goals from Sadio Mane and Robertson within six minutes to take a 2-1 lead into half-time.
Liverpool continued dominating possession and the creation of chances despite some scares from Arsenal, debutant Diogo Jota iced the game with a well-taken volley on his Premier League debut for the Reds to cap off an impressive showing from Jurgen Klopp’s side.
It’ll be a quick turnaround for both sides as a rematch of sorts takes place once again at Anfield in the fourth round of the EFL Cup.
Liverpool mauled Lincoln City 7-2 in the previous round whereas Arsenal defeated league leaders Leicester 2-0 at the King Power Stadium to earn a trip to Anfield.
I think we see a similar line-up against Arsenal to what Klopp fielded against Lincoln City, as well as a full debut for Thiago Alcantara who was slated to start against Arsenal on Monday but missed out through injury.
A New Name Already Paying Dividends
One who will most definitely start against Arsenal on Thursday is one Diogo Jota who netted on his league debut for Liverpool with s sweet volley outside the box.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp had a few kind words to say about his new signing.
“I’m really pleased for Diogo Jota. Top, top guy. It’s so difficult to improve a team like ours. He’s been on my list for two or three years, he’s here now.
“Today he had 60 or 70 minutes to watch how Sadio is doing and then he came on the pitch and did incredibly well. He scored a super goal, a nice first game at Anfield. He will never forget it; I will never forget it. A cool start.”
Long domestic cup runs are not something Liverpool have become accustomed to under Jurgen Klopp, aside from reaching the League Cup final in his debut season in 2015, Liverpool are yet to reach another League Cup or FA Cup Final.
Klopp’s decision to rotate heavily in the domestic competitions has drawn criticism for his apparent disrespect to the competitions but Klopp has long blamed the fixture schedule that forces him to make such heavy changes to protect the health of his players.
However, with an improved squad depth this season, even with heavy rotations, Liverpool will able to field a competitive line-up.
Liverpool Betting Prediction
Liverpool met Arsenal in the League Cup last year in what was one of the most exciting games in League Cup history with a 5-5 draw at full time before Liverpool progressed on penalties.
I’m going with another Liverpool win with a 3-2 scoreline meaning Liverpool will reach the quarterfinals of the EFL Cup.
Sportsbooks’ odds on Liverpool claiming their second win over Arsenal in four days open at +100. Odds on Arsenal getting revenge with a win open at +240. Odds on a draw between the two teams at full time open at +280.
