Liverpool and Crystal Palace will be very familiar with one another by season's end. Not only will they meet twice during the Premier League campaign, but they will also clash in the Carabao Cup in October. Not to mention that the teams have already met in the Community Shield, with the Eagles winning on penalties after battling Liverpool to a 2-2 draw. The first of those Premier League fixtures will take place today, Saturday, September 27, as the Reds and the Eagles meet at Selhurst Park.
A Fast Start
Liverpool are looking for a 6-0 start in EPL play with a victory. As impressive as that is, however, the Reds are nowhere close to the club record for consecutive wins, which also happens to be the EPL record at 25 straight wins to start the 2019-20 season. Liverpool won the league that year with 99 points, one off another EPL record set by Manchester City.
Other Fun Facts
Liverpool and Crystal Palace are the only two unbeaten sides left in the League, as the Eagles have two wins and three draws. Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr lead the way with two goals each as the Eagles sit 5th on the EPL table. Liverpool have been dominant in the EPL matchups, though, winning 15 of 16, with the only loss coming in 2024. With a brace, Mohamed Salah would reach 250 goals for Liverpool in all competitions. The Reds have been pretty good at spreading the scoring around, as 11 different players have combined for 18 goals so far.
What Does Slot Say?
Arne Slot knows that facing Crystal Palace will be a challenge.
“They have an enormous discipline defensively,” he said, “10 outfield players plus a goalkeeper that work so hard to prevent the other team from scoring. We saw this also in the Community Shield – even in the moments when we were up, they could still be very disciplined and calm in their own half, in their mid-to-low block. We saw this during the week when we played Southampton, who were disciplined against us, [and] how hard it is to play through them. Apart from that – but that's for every team in the Premier League – they have some individual quality, some individual players who are a big threat offensively.”
LFC Globe Verdict
This will no doubt be a tough match. Palace are a tough defensive side, judging by their three draws. Plus, Liverpool struggled in their last match vs. Southampton. If they struggle again, a loss could be looming. I am excited to see Alexander Isak to play a full 90 minutes in place of Hugo Ekitiké. I think his play will be the difference in a 2-1 win for the Reds.
Where To Watch
Kickoff is set for 14:00 BST, but due to the blackout rules, the game will not be broadcast in the UK. In the United States, fans can stream the match at 10 a.m.EST on Peacock Premium.