Liverpool's Struggles and Recent Form
Liverpool secured a narrow 1-0 win over Inter Milan in midweek, offering temporary relief to manager Arne Slot, who omitted Mohamed Salah following his recent interview. The Reds previously drew 3-3 with Leeds, leaving them with just 23 points and 24 goals conceded, marking their worst start as reigning champions since Leicester in 2016/17.
They are two goals away from conceding 50 Premier League goals in a calendar year for the third time ever. Liverpool remain winless in three competitive home games (one draw, two losses), highlighting ongoing difficulties at Anfield.
Brighton's Push for Europe
Brighton sit eighth, three points off the top four, after a two-match winless streak at home. Manager Fabian Hürzeler saw his side lose to Aston Villa despite a two-goal lead, then draw with West Ham after a late equaliser.
The Seagulls have lost just one of their last five away league games (two wins, two draws), keeping clean sheets in the last two. They last achieved three consecutive away shutouts in 2020.
Head-to-Head: Liverpool vs Brighton
Brighton seek back-to-back league wins over Liverpool for the first time, having won 3-2 in May. Historically, Liverpool have dominated at Anfield, losing only one of the last 11 meetings at home (seven wins, three draws).
Brighton are winless in their last eight Premier League matches in December, with five draws and three losses, while seven of their last 11 games saw both teams score.
Key Players and Team News
Alexis Mac Allister, formerly of Brighton, has scored seven of his last ten Liverpool goals at Anfield. Jan Paul van Hecke has scored three times for Brighton this season, twice after the 80th minute.
Liverpool will be without Cody Gakpo, Federico Chiesa, and suspended Conor Bradley. Brighton could miss Yasin Ayari and ex-Liverpool player James Milner.
Match Insights and Betting Tips
Liverpool have not scored a first-half goal in their last five league matches and have managed two or more goals in only one of their last seven home games.
Given Liverpool’s slow starts, betting analysis suggests Brighton scoring the first goal could be a favourable option.