Liverpool vs Crystal Palace Preview

Liverpool is at Anfield, where they are preparing to lift the Premier League trophy in front of their fans for the first time in 35 years. The Reds were crowned champions in 2019/20, but celebrated their victory in a empty stadium due to COVID-19 restrictions.

This makes this final day match against Crystal Palace not just a match, but a long-awaited celebration of dominance, resilience, and renewal under Arne Slot.

Although results have plummeted since Liverpool officially clinched the title with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Tottenham (D1 L2), few Merseyside fans are concerned. The work is already done. However, pride and the desire for a triumphant send-off remain strong. The home fans will demand one final statement of intent, not only to properly celebrate a glorious season, but also to lay the foundations for the reigning league title ahead of the 2024/25 season.

The Reds’ future is already generating buzz. Trent Alexander-Arnold, a key figure in that championship-winning side, has confirmed his departure, and Liverpool has wasted no time in finding a replacement. Rumors suggest Jeremie Frimpong has passed a medical ahead of his summer move, symbolizing how Arne Slot and the Liverpool management are preparing to improve a squad already boasting exceptional depth and cohesion.

If history is any guide, Liverpool is well-positioned to finish the season on a high. The Reds have won 15 of their last 17 final-day home matches (D2), consistently performing well under pressure. This resilience has been on full display throughout the season, as they enter this fixture with a record of two or more goals in 31 Premier League games, more than any other team in a single season.

The palace is in great shape after a historic triumph

In what has been a magical end to the season, Crystal Palace arrive at Anfield crowned with their first-ever major trophy. Their 1-0 victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup final last weekend cemented their place in history. For manager Oliver Glasner, who only took the reins midway through the season, this turnaround is nothing short of remarkable.

Riding this wave of confidence, Palace backed up their cup success with a thrilling 4-2 midweek victory over Wolves, extending their unbeaten run in all competitions to seven games (W4 D3). This run has propelled the Eagles into a position where they could potentially secure back-to-back top-half finishes in the Premier League, a feat they have never achieved in their 11-year run in the top flight since their return in 2013.

However, Anfield remains a daunting destination. The Eagles have won just one of their last 15 league meetings against Liverpool (D2 L12), and that victory came in 2017, a very different era for the two clubs. Palace also has a dismal record when it comes to finishing the Premier League season away from home, recording just one win in 12 (D3 L8). Their last away win on the final day of the league season was in 2005.

Key players to watch

Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

The Egyptian king was the face of Liverpool’s golden era, and he goes into the final day needing only one direct goal involvement to equal the Premier League record for most in a single season (47 – currently W28, A18).

With eight goals in 15 appearances against Palace, few would bet against him.

Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace)

The Frenchman has been Palace’s most consistent attacking threat this season and tends to do his best work away from home.

Eight of his last 12 goals have come away from Selhurst Park, and with Liverpool likely to dominate possession, Mateta’s movement and finishing on the counter-attack could be key.

Tactical Overview

Expect Liverpool to dominate possession and push for an early lead, especially after their fast start at Anfield this season. Palace could look to absorb the pressure and counter, using their pacey wingers and Mateta’s physicality to create chances in transition. Both teams possess strong attacking qualities, and given the festive nature of the match, it could turn into a goal-rich contest.

Liverpool’s main objective will be to control the midfield and maintain the intensity despite the lack of play. Players like Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister will be tasked with maintaining the pace and unlocking a Palace defense that has improved under Glasner but remains vulnerable to lateral attacks.

Hot Stats

Liverpool have scored two or more goals in 31 of their 37 Premier League games this season, a record in the competition.

Prediction

As the Premier League trophy finally returns to Anfield in front of their home fans, expect Liverpool to deliver. Palace are in excellent form, but their poor record in this game and on their last-day away trips makes the task difficult. A goal-rich match could be on the cards, but the Reds should cap their historic campaign with a victory.

Prediction: Liverpool 3-1 Crystal Palace