| Liverpool vs Chelsea | |
| MATCH | EFL Cup |
| DATE | 29 - 10 - 2026 |
| TIME | 01.30 AM IST |
| STADIUM | Anfield |
Liverpool vs Chelsea: Match Preview, Team News and Predicted Lineups
Chelsea head to Anfield looking to bounce back from a disappointing defeat against Tottenham Hotspur as they prepare for a challenging EFL Cup encounter with Liverpool. The Blues have struggled to maintain consistency under Xabi Alonso, and their latest performance highlighted several areas that need improvement.
Chelsea supporters were expecting a strong response at Stamford Bridge after the team's recent victory over Everton. Instead, Roberto De Zerbi's Tottenham side produced an impressive display to secure a 2-0 win, recording their first victory at Stamford Bridge since 2018.
The defeat was particularly frustrating for Chelsea, who struggled to create clear-cut chances and could have conceded more goals. Alonso must now find a way to restore confidence within his squad and deliver a stronger performance against one of English football's most formidable home teams.
Liverpool will welcome the opportunity to face Chelsea at Anfield as they look to secure a place in the EFL Cup quarter-finals. The Reds have enjoyed an encouraging run of results under Andoni Iraola, recovering impressively from their defeat against Manchester City earlier this month.
Liverpool's only defeat across all competitions this season came in a 3-0 loss to City, a match that changed significantly after Ryan Gravenberch was sent off for two bookable offences. Before that dismissal, the contest had remained goalless, leaving Liverpool to wonder what might have happened with 11 players on the pitch.
Since then, the Merseyside club have responded with four consecutive victories across all competitions. Their recent run includes a thrilling 4-3 Champions League victory over Villarreal, in which Liverpool recovered from a two-goal deficit inside the opening half-hour.
The Reds also secured a hard-fought comeback win against Brentford before recording a convincing 2-0 Premier League victory over Brighton. That result was especially important because it delivered Liverpool's first clean sheet in five matches.
With momentum on their side and home advantage, Liverpool will be confident of overcoming Chelsea. However, the prospect of squad rotation could make this cup tie more competitive than their recent form might suggest.
Liverpool Match Preview
Liverpool have demonstrated considerable attacking quality in recent weeks, scoring freely while showing the ability to recover from difficult situations. Their victory over Villarreal was a clear example of the team's resilience, while the win against Brighton demonstrated that they can also control matches defensively.
Iraola is expected to make several changes to his starting lineup as Liverpool balance their cup ambitions with preparations for a demanding Premier League fixture against Arsenal.
Despite the possibility of rotation, Liverpool possess plenty of attacking options capable of troubling Chelsea's defence. Cody Gakpo could play an important role in the forward line, while teenage prospect Rio Ngumoha may receive another opportunity to impress after contributing two assists against Villarreal.
Liverpool's home advantage could also prove decisive. Anfield has frequently provided the Reds with an energetic atmosphere during important cup matches, and the team will be eager to maintain its recent winning momentum.
Chelsea's inconsistent performances offer Liverpool an opportunity to take control of the contest, although the hosts must avoid becoming complacent against a side with considerable individual quality.
Chelsea Match Preview
Chelsea arrive at Anfield under pressure to deliver a convincing response after their disappointing defeat against Tottenham. Although Alonso's side have produced some encouraging attacking performances this season, inconsistency remains a concern.
Their recent results include a 5-1 victory over Bournemouth and a 2-0 win against Everton, but those performances were followed by a 0-2 defeat to Spurs. Chelsea have also experienced difficulties away from home, including a heavy defeat against Brentford.
The absence of Cole Palmer represents another significant challenge. The attacking midfielder is suspended following his dismissal against Tottenham, leaving Alonso without one of his most influential creative players.
Chelsea may therefore need to rely on their younger attacking talents to provide the creativity and penetration required to trouble Liverpool. Estevao Willian is expected to play a prominent role, and the teenager could be particularly important if he earns a starting position.
The Blues must also improve their defensive organisation. Liverpool's pace and movement in the final third could expose any weaknesses, particularly if Chelsea lose possession in dangerous areas.
Nevertheless, the EFL Cup presents Chelsea with an opportunity to put their recent disappointment behind them. A disciplined performance and an effective counterattacking strategy could help the visitors make life difficult for Liverpool.
Team News
Liverpool Team News
Liverpool are expected to rotate their squad ahead of their upcoming Premier League showdown with Arsenal.
Alisson Becker and Virgil van Dijk could be rested, while Bradley Barcola and Florian Wirtz are also candidates for a break. Wirtz reportedly experienced discomfort in his foot during the Brighton match but subsequently offered reassuring comments about the issue.
Cody Gakpo and Rio Ngumoha could feature prominently in attack, with the young forward hoping to build on his impressive contribution against Villarreal.
James McConnell and Lewis Koumas are also potential starters as Iraola considers his options for the cup tie.
Liverpool have several injury concerns. Dominik Szoboszlai is doubtful with a muscular problem, while Conor Bradley, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong and Giovanni Leoni are listed as unavailable. Victor Munoz is also a doubt with a knee issue.
The availability of key players could influence Liverpool's formation and attacking approach, but the club's squad depth should provide Iraola with several alternatives.
Chelsea Team News
Chelsea will be without Cole Palmer, who is suspended following his red card against Tottenham. His absence could significantly affect the team's creativity and ability to unlock Liverpool's defence.
Reece James is unavailable with a knee injury, while Emiliano Martinez is also reported to be sidelined with a broken jaw. The fitness of Joao Pedro, Pep Chavarria, Emmanuel Emegha and Jamie Gittens will need to be assessed before the match.
Estevao Willian is expected to play an important role in Chelsea's attack. The young Brazilian could be in contention for his first start in more than a month after featuring for 45 minutes in the EFL Cup third-round match against Leeds.
Alonso may consider using either a back four or a back five, depending on his tactical priorities. Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia could be important in midfield, while Valentin Barco and Jordan Henderson are among the potential options depending on the final squad selection.
Chelsea will need their available midfielders to provide defensive protection while ensuring that the team can move the ball forward effectively without Palmer.
Key Players to Watch
Liverpool: Cody Gakpo
Gakpo could be one of Liverpool's most important attacking players if he starts. His ability to find space, link up with teammates and finish chances could cause problems for Chelsea's defence.
Liverpool: Rio Ngumoha
The young forward has already demonstrated his creative potential with his contribution against Villarreal. Another opportunity in the EFL Cup would allow him to showcase his pace, confidence and attacking instincts.
Chelsea: Estevao Willian
With Palmer suspended, Estevao could shoulder greater responsibility in the attacking third. His dribbling, quick movement and willingness to take on defenders could provide Chelsea with a valuable attacking outlet.
Liverpool vs Chelsea Match Prediction
Liverpool enter this contest with the advantage of home support and a stronger run of recent results. Their attacking performances have been encouraging, and the victory over Brighton demonstrated that they are beginning to improve defensively.
Chelsea, meanwhile, must respond after their defeat against Tottenham and cope with the absence of Palmer. Their young attacking players have the ability to create problems, but maintaining consistency over the full 90 minutes will be essential.
Squad rotation could make the contest more unpredictable, particularly if Liverpool rest several first-team regulars. However, the Reds' recent momentum and home advantage make them the more convincing favourites.
Chelsea could find the net if they exploit spaces on the counterattack, but Liverpool should have enough quality to secure a narrow victory and advance to the next round.
Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Chelsea
Liverpool are tipped to win a competitive encounter at Anfield, although Chelsea could make the contest difficult if their attacking players take their chances.