1. Game Preview
Ipswich Town hosts Liverpool at Portman Road on August 17, 2024, marking their return to the Premier League after a 22-year absence. This game also kicks off a new era for Liverpool, with Dutch manager Arne Slot at the helm following Jürgen Klopp’s departure. Both teams are under new guidance, with Ipswich looking to make a statement against one of the league’s top sides.
2. Key Stats & Insights
- Ipswich’s Form: Ipswich comes into this game on the back of a successful pre-season, including wins over Nice and Hoffenheim. However, they are missing several key players due to injury, which could impact their performance.
- Liverpool’s Form: Liverpool, unbeaten in their last 12 Premier League opening matches, also had a strong pre-season, including a convincing win against Sevilla. However, their defense has shown vulnerabilities, particularly towards the end of last season.
3. Team Form and Performance
- Ipswich: The Tractor Boys finished second in the Championship last season and have strengthened their squad with new signings like Omari Hutchinson and Liam Delap. Despite a solid pre-season, the injuries to players like George Hirst and Harry Clarke might hinder their efforts against Liverpool.
- Liverpool: Liverpool has not made any significant signings this summer, but they retain a strong squad. Key players like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk will be crucial, especially with new tactics under Slot. However, Dominik Szoboszlai might miss the game due to a minor fitness issue.
4. Head-to-Head Records
Liverpool and Ipswich have not met since 2002. Historically, Liverpool has had the upper hand, including dominant victories in their last Premier League encounters over two decades ago.
5. Player Form and Availability
- Ipswich: The absence of several first-team players, including Hirst and Clarke, could be a significant disadvantage. However, Leif Davis and Hutchinson are expected to play crucial roles in attack.
- Liverpool: Salah remains Liverpool’s key player, having scored 25 goals last season. With Szoboszlai possibly out, the onus will be on players like Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota to support the attack.
6. Market Analysis (Odds)
Liverpool is the heavy favorite with odds around 1/3 (73.3% win probability). Ipswich, as the underdog, is at 15/2. Betting markets also favor a game with over 2.5 goals, reflecting Liverpool’s strong offensive capability but also their occasional defensive lapses.
7. Prediction
Despite Ipswich’s solid form and home advantage, Liverpool’s experience and quality should see them secure a win. A 2-1 victory for Liverpool seems likely, though Ipswich could push them hard, especially with the support of a passionate home crowd.