Fulham vs Liverpool tips and predictions: One goal the difference at Craven Cottage

Every top team in the Premier League have that one opponent who causes them problems, and Fulham could become that team for Liverpool.

The Cottagers have avoided defeat in four of the previous seven meetings but it’s never straightforward when the Reds do prevail.

The sides have met three times this campaign, most recently drawing 1-1 at Craven Cottage. Before that, Liverpool came from behind to win 2-1 in the Carabao Cup.

The reverse fixture provided one of the season's best games as Marco Silva’s side twice came from behind to lead before succumbing to goals in the 87th and 88th minute.

The previous two meetings at the Cottage have ended all square, with the two before that being edged by Liverpool thanks to a penalty in the final 10 minutes.

The London club were edged out by Newcastle, 1-0, in their last home match, but they’ve lost back-to-back home games just once since May 2021.

Jurgen Klopp’s side have no choice but to win. Last week's setback against Crystal Palace handed Man City the initiative, though it’s all to play for with eight games remaining.

They’ve had struggles on the road, recently losing 3-1 to Arsenal and drawing 2-2 at Old Trafford, but they’ve won six of the last eight.

Clean sheets have been few and far between by their standards so we expect Fulham to find the net, just as 10 of Liverpool’s previous 11 opponents have

 

Team news

At the time of writing, Fulham have a clean bill of health for Sunday.

Top scorers Rodrigo Muniz and Alex Iwobi will join Willian in the attack.

Alison Becker’s return means Liverpool can field their preferred back five for the fourth time this season.

Joel Matip, Conor Bradley and Thiago Alcantara are unavailable for the visitors.

 

Key stats

- The opening goal came after the 20th minute in all 12 of Fulham’s 16 home matches
- Fulham haven’t lost to Liverpool by two clear goals in the last eight meetings
- Fulham have lost back-to-back home games once since May 2021
- Liverpool have won six of their last eight away matches
- Liverpool have conceded in 10 of their last 11 matches

 

Suggested bets

Time of first goal: Over 30 minutes

Winning margin: One goal

Fulham +1 Asian handicap