Liverpool, still feeling the effects of last week’s emotionally draining Merseyside derby draw at Goodison Park, struggled against Wolves. Despite leading 2-0 at halftime, they failed to register a single shot in the second half at Anfield, allowing Matheus Cunha’s goal to create a tense finish.
However, Arne Slot’s side held on and now have the opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the table by ten points with a strong performance under the lights at Villa Park.
Aston Villa have experienced mixed domestic form this season but remain unbeaten at home since August. They were held to a draw by Ipswich over the weekend, leaving Unai Emery’s team ninth in the league table.
With ambitions of securing a European spot and replicating last season’s success, Villa have work to do.
Match Details
Fixture: Aston Villa vs. Liverpool
Location: Villa Park, Birmingham, England
Date: Wednesday, February 19
Kick-off Time: 19:30 GMT / 14:30 ET / 11:30 PT
Referee: Craig Pawson
VAR: Alex Chilowicz
Recent Head-to-Head (Last Five Meetings)
Aston Villa: 0 wins
Liverpool: 3 wins
Draws: 2
Last Meeting: Liverpool 2-0 Aston Villa (November 9, 2024)
Team News
Aston Villa
Villa have suffered another injury setback, with Boubacar Kamara ruled out for a few weeks due to a muscle issue. His absence compounds Villa’s defensive concerns, as Pau Torres is already sidelined, and Ezri Konsa remains doubtful. Matty Cash and Leon Bailey are also questionable, while Ross Barkley and Amadou Onana have been ruled out.
On the bright side, Tyrone Mings is available and is expected to partner with recent signing Axel Disasi at the back. Marcus Rashford could also make his first start for the club.
Predicted Aston Villa XI (4-2-3-1):
Martinez; Garcia, Disasi, Mings, Digne; Tielemans, McGinn; Asensio, Rogers, Rashford; Watkins.
Liverpool
Cody Gakpo will miss the game due to an injury sustained in the derby, which is a blow given his strong form in front of goal. Joe Gomez is also sidelined, and Tyler Morton is managing a shoulder issue.
Curtis Jones is available again after serving a short suspension and could be rotated into the lineup as Liverpool prepare for Sunday’s crucial clash at the Etihad.
Predicted Liverpool XI (4-2-3-1):
Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jones, Diaz; Nunez.
Match Prediction
Liverpool have dominated recent meetings against Aston Villa, and despite the absence of Gakpo, they should be able to exploit Villa’s weakened defense.
Kamara’s absence in midfield is a significant loss for Emery’s side, potentially giving Liverpool greater control in possession. Having navigated the Wolves game following the derby, the Reds should deliver a more composed performance here.
Expect Liverpool to secure a hard-fought win, continuing their strong away form in 2025.
Prediction: Aston Villa 1-2 Liverpool.
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