Is Liverpool’s dominance over Southampton beginning to crack? The Reds have long been the undisputed kings of this Premier League rivalry, but recent clashes suggest the Saints are no longer rolling over. With a thrilling 4-4 draw last season and a narrow 3-2 loss in November 2024, Southampton is showing it has the fight to challenge Liverpool’s supremacy. Could this be the game where they finally turn the tide?
Liverpool vs Southampton: A Rivalry in Flux
Liverpool and Southampton have met 49 times in the Premier League, with the Reds holding a commanding lead with 27 wins. However, the recent form suggests this rivalry is becoming increasingly competitive. Southampton’s 4-4 draw in May 2023 was a statement of intent, proving they can go toe-to-toe with Liverpool in a high-scoring encounter. Their 3-2 defeat in November 2024 was another narrow miss, leaving fans wondering if the Saints are on the verge of a breakthrough.
Last 5 Meetings: A Mixed Bag
- 24 Nov 2024: Southampton 2-3 Liverpool
- 28 May 2023: Southampton 4-4 Liverpool
- 12 Nov 2022: Liverpool 3-1 Southampton
- 17 May 2022: Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
- 27 Nov 2021: Liverpool 4-0 Southampton
While Liverpool still holds the edge, Southampton’s recent performances suggest they are closing the gap. The 4-4 draw was a masterclass in attacking football, while the narrow 3-2 defeat showed they can push Liverpool to the brink. This is not the same Southampton that rolled over in a 4-0 loss back in 2021.
Current Form: Momentum on Liverpool’s Side
Liverpool has been in solid form recently, with their last five matches including three wins and two draws:
- W (H): 2-0 vs Newcastle
- W (A): 2-0 vs Man City
- D (A): 2-2 vs Aston Villa
- W (H): 2-1 vs Wolves
- D (A): 2-2 vs Everton
Southampton, on the other hand, has struggled, with their last five matches including two heavy losses:
- L (A): 0-4 vs Chelsea
- L (H): 1-3 vs Arsenal
- W (A): 2-1 vs Bournemouth
- D (H): 1-1 vs Brighton
- L (A): 0-2 vs Tottenham
While Liverpool is riding a wave of confidence, Southampton’s inconsistent form raises questions about their ability to compete at Anfield.
Season So Far: Liverpool’s Title Aspirations vs Southampton’s Survival Battle
Liverpool is firmly in the title race, sitting comfortably in the top four. Their attacking trio of Mo Salah, Darwin Núñez, and Luis Díaz has been electric, combining speed, precision, and clinical finishing. Their midfield, led by Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister, provides the perfect balance of creativity and grit.
Southampton, however, is fighting for survival in the Premier League. The Saints have shown flashes of brilliance but have struggled for consistency. Their attack, led by Che Adams and Adam Armstrong, has potential but lacks the cutting edge needed to compete with the league’s elite.
Lineups: Key Battles to Watch
Liverpool’s Predicted XI: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Jones; Salah, Núñez, Díaz.
Southampton’s Predicted XI: Bazunu; Walker-Peters, Bednarek, Bella-Kotchap, Perraud; Ward-Prowse, Lavia; S. Armstrong, Alcaraz, A. Armstrong; Adams.
The duel between Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold and Southampton’s Kyle Walker-Peters on the right flank will be pivotal. Alexander-Arnold’s attacking prowess is well-documented, but Walker-Peters’ speed and defensive discipline could prove crucial in nullifying the threat.
In midfield, the battle between Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai and Southampton’s James Ward-Prowse will be fascinating. Ward-Prowse’s set-piece expertise is a constant threat, but Szoboszlai’s dynamism could tip the scales in Liverpool’s favor.
Prediction: Liverpool to Edge It
Despite Southampton’s recent improvement, Liverpool’s quality and home advantage should prove decisive. The Reds are in better form, and their firepower up front will be too much for Southampton to handle. Expect a closely contested match, but Liverpool to come out on top.
| Aspect | Liverpool | Southampton |
|---|---|---|
| Form | W, W, D, W, D | L, L, W, D, L |
| Key Player | Mo Salah | James Ward-Prowse |
| Prediction | 3-1 Win |
Final Thoughts
Liverpool vs Southampton is a fixture that continues to evolve. While the Reds have historically dominated, Southampton’s recent performances suggest they are no longer pushovers. This match promises to be an intriguing battle between a title contender and a team fighting for survival. Expect fireworks, drama, and ultimately, a Liverpool victory that keeps their title dreams alive.