Manchester City host Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium in a title deciding match. . Liverpool are first in the league, 7 points clear from Manchester City with both clubs being favorites to win the league. Not only are these two teams aiming to win the Premier League, they’re also aiming for the Champions League. Last season Liverpool ended City’s hopes of going invincible in the league after a 4-3 win at Anfield, and eliminated City from the Champions League in the Quarter-finals.
Manchester City’s starting XI
Gk: Ederson
LB: Danilo LCB: Laporte RCB: Kompany RB: Stones
LCM: Silva CDM: Fernandinho RCM: Bernardo
LW:Sane ST: Aguero RW: Sterling
Kevin De Bruyne is out of the starting line up as he is still isn’t fully fit but is on the bench. His presence in midfield will be missed, but City has such great depth the Bernardo easily fits in to do the job. Fernandinho return is a great bonus for City, as they’ve lost their last two games without the Brazilian starting. His absense in the side was noticed, and Manchester City need to start looking for a replacement as he is reaching the end of his career at the age of 33. After winning the league last season with 100 points, Manchester City were considered favorites for the league until their two back to back defeats to Crystal Palace and Leicester City. A win today is now mandatory for the Citizens as they would only be 4 points behind Liverpool, making sure they don’t get comfortable for the title.
Liverpool’s starting XI
GK: Alisson
LB: Roberton LCB: Van Dijk RCB: Lovren RB: Alexander-Arnold
LCM: Milner CM: Henderson RCM: Wijnaldum
LW: Mane CF Firmino RW: Salah
Jurgen Klopps back line has been the best in the league, conceding only 8 goals this season. This will be their biggest test as Manchester City has the best attack in the league, scoring 54 goals this season. Mohamed Salah will be looking to extend his goal tally today having 13 goals this season, only 1 shy of Arsenal’s Pierre Emerick Aubameyang. The Egyptian forward will be hoping to reclaim his golden boot, winning it last season with 32 goals, breaking the record for most goals in a season. A win today would take Liverpool 10 points clear of Manchester City, as well as keeping them in third place. With the way their defense is playing, a win today should surely win them the title.
I predict City winning the match 3-2, keeping the title race exciting!
Alex's Soccer Blog 