The absence of Alexander Isak will significantly reduce Newcastle's attacking strength - Photo: REUTERS
The confrontation between Newcastle and Liverpool is not only tense on the field but also because of the behind-the-scenes story surrounding striker Alexander Isak.
The Swedish striker has publicly expressed his desire to leave Newcastle to join Liverpool, and he has been left out of the squad amid this conflict.
The Magpies entered the battle with a huge loss. Isak's absence immediately exposed their fatal weakness: finishing ability.
In the opening match, Newcastle drew goalless with Aston Villa, despite having the advantage of more players, coach Eddie Howe's attack still appeared deadlocked.
Despite having the home advantage of St. James' Park, the absence of their most important striker will certainly significantly reduce their attacking power. Facing a high-pressing Liverpool, not having a striker capable of applying reverse pressure like Isak will be a fatal weakness.
On the other hand, Arne Slot's Liverpool are showing a devastating attacking form. The "Red Brigade" just had a brilliant start with a 4-2 victory over Bournemouth, where rookie Hugo Ekitike shone with a goal and an assist.
Although the defense still has concerns, having only kept 1 clean sheet in the last 10 matches, Liverpool's attack is capable of covering up any mistakes.
With stars like Mohamed Salah, who had a knack for scoring against Newcastle, Liverpool are ready to punish any gaps the home team expose.
If they score in the next match, the "red brigade" will equal the record of scoring in 36 consecutive matches in the highest league in England.
Liverpool is expected to have a hard time against Newcastle - Photo: REUTERS
The bookmakers offer a fairly balanced odds when Liverpool concedes 0.5 goals for the whole match (0.25 goals in the first half). Meanwhile, the over/under of the match is 3 goals (1.25 goals in the first half). According to many experts, the odds of over/under winning in this match are extremely high.
History is on the visitors' side as Newcastle have failed to beat Liverpool in their last 17 Premier League meetings.
This is expected to be a high-scoring match. Newcastle with home field advantage will fight fiercely.
Liverpool, with their destructive attack and superior spirit, are expected to win in a dramatic score chase, making Newcastle "regret" right at home.
Expected lineup:
Newcastle: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Burn, Livramento; Guimaraes, Tonali, Joelinton; Elanga, Gordon, Barnes.
Liverpool: Alisson; Szoboszlai, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike.
Prediction: Newcastle 2-3 Liverpool.
THANH DINH
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/du-doan-ti-so-ngoai-hang-anh-liverpool-khien-newcastle-om-han-2025082322483205.htm
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