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Can Newcastle End Their Anfield Curse or Will Liverpool Take Another Step Toward the Title?
Liverpool and Newcastle United are set to clash in a highly anticipated Premier League fixture at Anfield on Wednesday evening. With both teams having plenty to fight for—Liverpool chasing another league title and Newcastle battling for a top-four finish—this encounter promises to be another thriller.
The last three meetings between these two sides have produced 15 goals, including a dramatic 3-3 draw at St James’ Park earlier this season. Both teams will also have an eye on their upcoming Carabao Cup final showdown next month, making this game an early psychological battle.
With Newcastle looking for their first win at Anfield since 1995, here are four key battles that could determine the outcome of this electrifying fixture.
1. Ibrahima Konaté vs Alexander Isak
Alexander Isak has been in sensational form this season, consistently delivering crucial goals for Newcastle. The Swedish striker has already proven his quality against Liverpool, scoring in both of his previous visits to Anfield. His pace, movement, and finishing ability make him a nightmare for defenders.
While Virgil van Dijk is often seen as Liverpool’s defensive rock, Isak may target Ibrahima Konaté instead. The French defender is an imposing figure but can sometimes be caught out of position. If Isak can lure him out and exploit the space behind, Newcastle could find a way through Liverpool’s high defensive line.
Key Question: Can Konaté contain Isak’s movement, or will the Newcastle striker add another goal to his Anfield record?
2. Trent Alexander-Arnold vs Anthony Gordon
Trent Alexander-Arnold may have played a key role in Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Manchester City, but his defensive vulnerabilities were exposed by Jeremy Doku. Now, he faces another tricky winger in Anthony Gordon, who has a history of causing Liverpool problems.
Gordon has been a standout performer for Newcastle, with his direct dribbling and ability to create chances making him one of the most dangerous wingers in the league. He has scored twice and provided an assist in his last three matches against Liverpool, and he will be eager to shine at Anfield.
If Gordon can exploit Alexander-Arnold’s defensive lapses, Newcastle will have a major attacking threat down the left flank.
Key Question: Will Alexander-Arnold’s attacking ability outweigh his defensive struggles, or will Gordon capitalize on his weaknesses?
3. Alexis Mac Allister vs Bruno Guimarães
Liverpool will be relieved that Alexis Mac Allister is fit despite suffering a black eye against Manchester City. His presence in midfield will be crucial as he goes head-to-head with Newcastle’s Brazilian maestro, Bruno Guimarães.
Both players are vital to their team’s buildup play and defensive stability. Mac Allister has brought control to Liverpool’s midfield, while Guimarães has been a driving force for Newcastle, orchestrating attacks and disrupting opposition play.
With both players expected to play key roles in dictating the game’s tempo, the winner of this midfield duel could have a major say in the final result.
Key Question: Can Mac Allister impose himself in midfield, or will Guimarães dominate the battle?
4. Mohamed Salah vs Lewis Hall
Mohamed Salah has been unstoppable this season, registering an incredible 25 goals and 16 assists in just 27 appearances. Stopping him is easier said than done, and that task falls on Newcastle’s 20-year-old left-back, Lewis Hall.
Hall has been impressive in recent weeks, but his primary position is midfield, and facing a player of Salah’s caliber will be his toughest test yet. If Hall can keep Salah quiet, Newcastle’s chances of securing a result will improve significantly.
However, Salah is not just a goal threat—his ability to create chances and pull defenders out of position could open space for Liverpool’s other attackers.
Key Question: Can Hall rise to the challenge, or will Salah’s brilliance be the difference once again?
Final Thoughts: Who Will Prevail?
With so much at stake, Liverpool vs Newcastle is set to be another thrilling contest. Can Newcastle finally break their Anfield curse, or will Liverpool continue their charge toward the Premier League title?
What do you think? Which of these battles will be the most decisive? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
