Liverpool will look to continue the strong form they showed in opening their Premier League season when they take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Monday, 20 August 2018, kick-off at 21h00 CAT.
Liverpool hit the ground running in 2018/19 as they thrashed West Ham United 4-0 at Anfield last Sunday. The win was underpinned by African excellence, as Mohamed Salah continued where he left off last season by opening the scoring, Sadio Mane netted twice, and debutant Naby Keita provided a powerful performance in midfield.
Manager Jurgen Klopp will have been excited by his side’s display, but there remains room for improvement in their intensity and organisation – aspects the German tactician will be monitoring closely ahead of this match in London.
Palace avoided the perils of a poor start (something they certainly experienced last season) by beating newly-promoted Fulham 2-0 at Craven Cottage. Just as was the case for Liverpool, their victory was inspired by their African players, as Ghanaian Jeffrey Schlupp opened the scoring, while Ivory Coast superstar Wilfried Zaha capped off the win with a second goal.
The latter player is the key to the Eagles’ hopes of getting something out of this match – and indeed enjoying a successful season. Little wonder they are prepared to offer him a new-and-improved contract despite already having him tied to the club until 2022.
Palace v Liverpool – Head-to-head, Premier League
In head-to-head stats, Palace and Liverpool have met in 18 Premier League matches. The Reds have claimed 10 wins compared to five for the Eagles, while just three games have finished in draws.
The teams’ most recent meeting in the Premier League was at Selhurst Park in March this year, with Liverpool claiming a 2-1 win thanks to goals from Mane and Salah. Luka Milivojevic netted for Palace.
The Reds have had their troubles against the Eagles in the past, but with an overwhelming attacking power they should have too much for the hosts and leave London on Monday night with all three points in the bag.
Matches played 18
Palace wins 5
Liverpool wins 10
Draws 3
Chelsea v Arsenal – Last five Premier League meetings
31 March 2018 – Palace 1-2 Liverpool
19 August 2017 – Liverpool 1-0 Palace
23 April 2017 – Liverpool 1-2 Palace
29 October 2016 – Palace 2-4 Liverpool
6 March 2016 – Palace 1-2 Liverpool