Top-of-the-table Liverpool is set to face bottom-of-the-table Southampton at Anfield on March 8, 2025. With Liverpool’s championship aspirations on the line, anything less than a victory would be unthinkable. This match also marks a critical point in the season for both teams, and here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated clash.
Liverpool vs. Southampton: What to Expect
When Liverpool takes on Southampton, fans can expect a high-stakes match filled with tension and excitement. Liverpool sits comfortably at the top of the Premier League, while Southampton, struggling at the bottom, is desperate for points. This disparity creates a compelling narrative where Liverpool seeks to solidify its title bid, and Southampton fights for survival.
Easiest Game of the Season?
On the surface, this match appears to be Liverpool’s easiest challenge of the season. Facing the bottom-placed team at home, they have the chance to extend their lead over second-placed Arsenal, who are set to play Manchester United the following day. However, Liverpool’s head coach, Arne Slot, is aware that no game can be taken lightly in the Premier League. Previous encounters against Southampton have been tight, and Slot’s caution reflects the unpredictable nature of football.
A Dismal Season for Southampton
Southampton’s season has been nothing short of catastrophic. With just nine points from 27 matches, they are on track to threaten Derby County’s infamous record of the lowest points total in Premier League history. Following a managerial change from Russell Martin to Ivan Juric, the team has continued to struggle, losing nine of their last ten league matches. As relegation looms closer, the players are left to salvage pride in what remains of the season.
Who’s Missing for Liverpool?
Injuries can significantly impact a team’s performance, and Liverpool is not immune. High-profile absentees include Cody Gakpo, who remains a doubt for the match, along with Conor Bradley, Joe Gomez, and Tyler Morton. The Reds will also be without their head coach Slot, who is serving a two-match ban, placing assistant John Heitinga in charge. Despite these setbacks, Liverpool’s depth and quality in the squad should allow them to field a competitive team.
Predicted Liverpool XI
With the upcoming Champions League clash against PSG in mind, Slot may make strategic changes to his lineup. Expect Trent Alexander-Arnold to start at right-back, with Kostas Tsimikas likely replacing the injured Andy Robertson. Key midfielders Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch may also see reduced minutes, paving the way for young talents Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliott to step in. The potential lineup could look like this: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Jones; Salah, Diaz, Nunez.
How Will Southampton Line Up?
Having not played since their disheartening 4-0 defeat against Chelsea on February 24, Southampton should be well-rested for this encounter. However, they face their own injury concerns, with James Bree and Kyle Walker-Peters doubtful due to knocks. A predicted Southampton lineup could include Ramsdale; Sugawara, Harwood-Bellis, Bednarek, Bella-Kotchap, Manning; Fernandes, Ugochukwu, Smallbone, Sulemana; Onuachu.
Slot Shoots Down ‘Lucky’ Claims
In response to criticisms suggesting that Liverpool has been fortunate with injuries this season, Slot offered a strong rebuttal. Pointing out that key players like Diogo Jota and Alisson have missed significant time, he emphasized that injuries are an unavoidable part of football. This perspective serves as a reminder that every team faces challenges, and resilience is key to success.
Southampton’s Record at Anfield
Historically, Southampton has struggled at Anfield, with their last league victory there dating back to September 2013. The team’s poor record in recent matches only adds to the pressure they face going into this clash. Liverpool has won the last six league meetings at home, further tilting the odds in favor of the Reds.
Did You Know?
Liverpool’s attacking players have faced criticism for their lack of form this season. Mohamed Salah, Diogo Jota, and Luis Diaz have only managed a combined three goals in 2025, raising concerns about their effectiveness. This lack of scoring could be a pivotal factor in their title challenge, making Gakpo’s absence all the more impactful.
Lewis Smith in the Middle
Young referee Lewis Smith, making his debut officiating a Liverpool match in the league, will be in charge of the game. At just 30 years old, Smith is the youngest referee in the Premier League this season, and his performance will be closely scrutinized in such a high-stakes encounter.
Follow the Match with TIA
Liverpool vs. Southampton kicks off at 3 PM GMT on Saturday, and while it won’t be televised live in the UK, fans can follow the action through live blogs and updates from reliable sources. All eyes will be on Anfield as Liverpool aims to continue their title march against a Southampton side fighting to avoid relegation.
In summary, this match promises to be a crucial encounter for both teams, with Liverpool looking to assert their dominance and Southampton desperately seeking a lifeline. The stage is set for a thrilling contest at Anfield.