FOOTBALL
Chelsea vs Liverpool. Who will win?
Two English powerhouses struggling to find form this season will hope for a turn of luck when they lock horns at Anfield on Saturday afternoon.
Liverpool were humiliated 3-0 at the Amex Stadium by a brilliant Brighton side in their last Premier League outing. But they still have the same amount of points as their Saturday rivals Chelsea, who beat Crystal Palace 1-0, despite playing a game less.
Jürgen Klopp’s side has 28 points to their name in 18 matches and a win against the Blues would see them climb to sixth on the table.
Chelsea would also become sixth momentarily if they can claim the full three points against the mighty Reds.
With two back-to-back away defeats against Brentford and Brighton, Liverpool are still looking for their first victory in the Premier League since the turn of the year.
Despite those back-to-back defeats, Liverpool can take solace in the fact this Saturday’s game takes place on home soil.
They’ve only lost one of their last 32 Premier League matches at Anfield, finding the back of the net in each of them, scoring 79 goals at an average of 2.5 per game.
However, the home team has won just three of the last 17 Premier League games versus Chelsea (seven draws and seven losses), though two of those did come at Anfield in 2019 and 2020.
And with six defeats already in the Premier League this season (also losing to Leeds United, Nottingham Forest, Arsenal, Man United), Liverpool are fast approaching Klopp’s previous highs of nine (2020-2021) and eight defeats (2015-2016) across a campaign.
Liverpool’s midfield woes have been at the root of their struggles this season. But they still managed to hold on to their impressive home record.
Liverpool have a long list of notable absentees, including Virgil van Dijk, Roberto Firmino, Diogo Jota, Luis Díaz, and Arthur.
Darwin Núñez is expected to return, so Cody Gakpo will move to a wider attacking position.
Chelsea arrested their three-match winless run in the league with a hard fought victory over Crystal Palace.
The Eagles went toe to toe with the Londoners at Stamford Bridge. But a Kai Havertz goal right after the hour mark made the difference in the end.
It was Chelsea’s second Premier League victory in 10 matches, both of which came on home turf.
They have been winless on the road since October. So, Graham Potter’s side are not favourites for a win at Anfield, but they can ill afford dropping more points as they drift further and further away from European spots.
Chelsea’s new marquee signing Mykhailo Mudryk might make his debut against Liverpool. Kai Havert might not be involved as he missed training for unknown reasons.
This could be a big miss as Havertz has already proved that he enjoys a game at Anfield, having scored in this exact fixture last season. Incidentally, the last Chelsea player to score in consecutive away league games against Liverpool was Joe Cole way back in 2005.
The German could be the latest addition to Chelsea’s growing list of injury absentees alongside Raheem Sterling, Christian Pulisic, Wesley Fofana, Ben Chilwell, Reece James, N’Golo Kanté, Denis Zakaria, and Édouard Mendy.
Our Prediction
None of these teams are at their best, at the moment.
But, Liverpool’s impressive home record makes them the obvious favourites. We are expecting a 1-0 win for Liverpool.
Kick-Off: January 21, 6 PM (IST)
Venue: Anfield
FC Goa
Shane Watson Joins FC Goa Players for Exciting Instagram Live Session
Fans will witness an exciting Instagram Live featuring Shane Watson and FC Goa players Sandesh, Jay, and Aakash.
📅 Date: 12th January 2025
⏰ Time: 5 PM onwards
Shane Watson will share his incredible cricket journey during this engaging session with football stars from FC Goa. Transitioning seamlessly, the players will discuss their football experiences and personal journeys with fans worldwide.
Sandesh, Jay, and Aakash will represent FC Goa and talk about their passion for football and inspiring moments. Furthermore, Shane Watson will highlight the parallels between cricket and football, showcasing their similarities in teamwork and dedication.
This Instagram Live will also allow fans to interact with these iconic players by asking questions and sharing comments. Moreover, the live session will explore insights into how sports unite people globally through shared enthusiasm.
Fans can look forward to fun moments, as Watson and the Gaurs discuss the mental and physical aspects of sports. Transitioning naturally, they will reveal how professional athletes stay focused and overcome challenges in high-pressure situations.
FC Goa’s official Instagram handle will host this event, ensuring fans have direct access to this thrilling interaction. Notably, this collaboration emphasizes the growing synergy between cricket and football, celebrating India’s passion for both sports.
Mark your calendars for 12th January 2025 and join this unique event showcasing sportsmanship, unity, and shared passion. Don’t miss the chance to connect with your favorite players and gain exclusive insights from legends of sports.
BIG NEWS
Reporter Denies Alleged Affair with Lionel Messi
A reporter recently addressed rumors of an alleged affair with football icon Lionel Messi, firmly denying the claims. She stated that the speculation was baseless and that she had been unfairly dragged into the controversy. The incident has sparked widespread discussions, with fans debating the impact of such rumors on public figures.
The reporter clarified her stance during an interview, stating she was “caught in the middle of something untrue.” The allegations originated from unverified sources, causing unnecessary distress to both parties involved. Lionel Messi, who maintains a clean public image, has not commented on the matter, allowing the focus to remain on his professional achievements.
This controversy highlights the challenges faced by public figures and media professionals in dealing with intrusive rumors. Such situations can often tarnish reputations, even when no evidence supports the claims. The reporter emphasized the importance of responsible journalism and urged people to verify facts before spreading allegations.
Lionel Messi, celebrated worldwide for his footballing excellence, has always maintained a private personal life. Despite this, rumors occasionally surface, drawing unnecessary attention. Fans and supporters have largely dismissed the allegations, expressing their unwavering support for Messi and his family.
The incident underscores the need for privacy and respect for individuals in the public eye. The reporter’s statement aimed to bring clarity to the situation and move past the baseless accusations. This serves as a reminder of the impact false narratives can have on people’s lives.
With the reporter’s denial, the focus can now shift back to Lionel Messi’s ongoing contributions to football. Fans and media alike hope for a resolution and a move away from unnecessary controversies.
FC Goa
Hyderabad FC Salvages Late Draw Against FC Goa in ISL
Hyderabad FC clinched a dramatic late equalizer against FC Goa in an intense 1-1 draw during the Indian Super League 2024-25. The thrilling encounter unfolded at the GMC Athletic Stadium, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
The first half witnessed both teams showcasing aggressive strategies, with FC Goa dominating possession early on. Their efforts bore fruit in the 23rd minute when Iker Guarrotxena scored a brilliant goal, giving FC Goa a crucial lead. Hyderabad FC’s defense struggled to contain Goa’s relentless attacks but prevented further damage before halftime.
The second half saw Hyderabad FC adopting a more aggressive approach, creating multiple equalization opportunities. However, FC Goa’s defense, led by Anwar Ali, displayed resilience, thwarting Hyderabad’s attempts. Despite the pressure, Hyderabad’s persistence paid off in the 88th minute when Halicharan Narzary capitalized on a defensive lapse to score a stunning equalizer.
Both teams fought fiercely in the final moments, but the match concluded in a 1-1 stalemate. FC Goa’s coach, Manolo Márquez, expressed disappointment over losing two points despite a strong performance. Hyderabad’s coach, Thangboi Singto, praised his team’s determination to secure a crucial point.
The draw affects the standings for both teams, as they aim to strengthen their positions in the league. FC Goa will look to bounce back with a victory in their next game, while Hyderabad FC gains momentum from their spirited comeback.
The match highlighted the competitive nature of the ISL, with both teams showcasing their potential. Fans celebrated the intensity and excitement, reaffirming their passion for the league.
-
FILMY1 year ago
WATCH: Tripti Dimri shocks audiences with daring nude sequence in Ranbir Kapoor starrer ‘Animal’
-
BIG NEWS2 years ago
Riva Arora, aged 12, romances with Karan Kundrra in viral video
-
BIG NEWS2 years ago
Meet the sexiest female golfer ever!
-
LATEST2 years ago
The sexiest tennis star on the planet. Do you agree?
-
CRICKET1 year ago
‘Bloody dump captain’ – Former Pakistan cricketer lashes out at Babar Azam and staff for mismanagement of fast bowlers in Asia Cup 2023
-
FILMY1 year ago
WATCH: After Tripti Dimri, Rashmika Mandanna’s intimate scene with Ranbir Kapoor in ‘Animal’ goes viral on internet
-
CRICKET1 year ago
Top 10 hairstyle of MS Dhoni from 2007 to 2023
-
FILMY1 year ago
Did you know Simi Garewal dated India’s iconic industrialist Ratan Tata? Know more about this