Liverpool vs Man City Predictions
Liverpool vs. Manchester City is the standout match on the 12th day of the Barclays Premier League. The Merseyside outfit have been on an impressive run of form in all competitions, not only leading the Premier League, but also sitting six points clear at the top. The only time Liverpool have dropped points this season was during their recent away trip to Old Trafford, where they drew 1-1 with Manchester United. The reigning Premier League champions visit Anfield next, a showdown that could see Liverpool's advantage swell to nine points.
The Citizens, on the other hand, had a stop-and-start start to their 2019-20 campaign. They suffered shocking defeats to newly-promoted Norwich City and Wolverhampton Wanderers in the league. They were held to a draw by Atalanta in their last Champions League game, and to top it all off, they are still waiting for their goalkeeper's fitness to be confirmed. England defender Kyle Walker was called into action in midweek after Ederson was injured and Claudio Bravo was sent off.
Liverpool vs Man City Preview
Much has been said and reported in the media about the interaction and relationship between the two head coaches, Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola. The City boss has made his stance clear when it comes to Liverpool striker Sadio Mane and his alleged tendency to go down too easily. The Senegal international has reacted angrily to the City manager's admonition and has quietly suggested that he would rather dive than stand upright if it would help his side win a penalty.
The oddsmakers still have Liverpool as favorites for the upcoming clash. The odds aren't just based on form, as City's injury situation is also a factor. They could be missing several key players, including smart-money bet David Silva, who suddenly seems to be en vogue for using injury excuses to ensure players stay rested and healthy for the stretch run. Of course, a not-so-smart bet is to assume that City's absentees will amount to the same shortfall that Liverpool's lineup could experience.
Liverpool will be looking to extend their unbeaten run and increase their cushion at the top of the table, allowing them to afford a slip-up as the December fixtures pile up. With a much better head-to-head record against Pep, Klopp will surely have a game plan that will give Liverpool a win at home. The two teams met in the Community Shield earlier this season, with City lifting the trophy on penalties after a 1-1 draw.