After 18 league rounds, Liverpool sit fourth in the table with 32 points from 10 wins, 2 draws, and 6 defeats. The Reds are currently in excellent form, riding a four-match winning streak. At Anfield, Liverpool have shown strong dominance this season, recording 6 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses from nine league home matches, giving them clear home intimidation and a solid foundation for collecting points.
However, Liverpool are facing serious injury concerns and squad disruptions. Star forward Mohamed Salah is absent due to the Africa Cup of Nations, while key players such as Cody Gakpo, Stefan Bajcetic, and Wataru Endo are sidelined, weakening both midfield protection and attacking efficiency. The absence of Joe Gomez also reduces defensive solidity on the right flank. The main positive comes from Dominik Szoboszlai, who returns from suspension and can help boost creativity in midfield. Liverpool will need Florian Wirtz to link play effectively and rely on wing attacks to maintain offensive tempo.
After 17 league matches, Leeds United have collected 20 points from 5 wins, 5 draws, and 8 losses, placing them 16th in the Premier League standings. Their performances at both ends of the pitch have been unbalanced, averaging 1.39 goals scored and 1.78 goals conceded per game. Away from home, Leeds have managed just 1 win, 2 draws, and 6 losses, earning them a reputation as a poor traveling side.
Offensively, Leeds rely heavily on the red-hot form of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has scored in six consecutive Premier League matches, setting a new club record. In terms of recent form, Leeds are unbeaten in their last five league matches with 2 wins and 3 draws, scoring 12 goals during this run and showing reliable attacking output. Squad-wise, key defender Joe Rodon is ruled out with an ankle ligament injury, while Sean Longstaff and Daniel James remain unavailable. tell defensive absences have forced head coach Daniel Farke to abandon his preferred 3-5-2 system in favor of a temporary back four, whose chemistry remains questionable. Weaknesses in set-piece defending and wide areas are particularly evident.
Comprehensive Analysis
This matchup pits a home-winning powerhouse against an attack-minded but defensively fragile promoted side. Historically, Liverpool hold a clear advantage, winning 8, drawing 3, and losing just 1 of their last 12 Premier League meetings with Leeds, while also enjoying a psychological edge at Anfield. Despite Liverpool’s injury-hit squad, the intense home atmosphere and current winning momentum can help offset personnel losses. Led by Virgil van Dijk, the Reds’ defense is well-positioned to exploit Leeds’ defensive gaps through wide play and central penetration.
Leeds may pose a threat through Calvert-Lewin’s individual finishing ability, but with key defensive leaders missing and limited away stability, it will be difficult for them to withstand sustained pressure from Liverpool. Overall, Liverpool’s home advantage and superior overall strength make them the more likely winner, and they are well placed to secure victory in their first league match of the new year.
Recommendation: Home Win
Predicted Score: Liverpool 3–1 Leeds United
