Liverpool's struggles continue but Arne Slot will be looking to end that when he welcomes old rivals PSV Eindhoven to Anfield in the Champions League
Arne Slot looks down
Arne Slot has been criticised for Liverpool's poor season so far
View Image
Liverpool’s historical dominance over PSV Eindhoven may not offer much comfort this Wednesday, as the struggling Reds welcome the Eredivisie leaders to Anfield for matchday five of the Champions League. While Liverpool have won all three previous home encounters against PSV, they have rarely faced the Dutch side in such poor form, giving Peter Bosz’s men genuine hope ahead of their eighth European meeting.
The Reds’ 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest on Saturday epitomized their recent woes, coming just two weeks after a similar 3-0 loss to Manchester City. Hopes of a swift recovery were dashed as Arne Slot’s side slumped to new lows, leaving them 12th in the Premier League after 12 games.
Defensive issues have plagued Liverpool, with Alisson Becker unable to prevent back-to-back three-goal concessions for the first time since 1965. Virgil van Dijk’s leadership has been undermined by Ibrahima Konate’s uncertain future, Milos Kerkez’s struggles to adapt, and the absence of Trent Alexander-Arnold following his move to Real Madrid. The midfield has also suffered, with Dominik Szoboszlai—one of the season’s standout performers—forced into unfamiliar defensive roles, leaving a void in the middle of the park. Up front, Mohamed Salah has struggled to replicate his Ballon d’Or-nominated form, Alexander Isak has yet to settle, and Florian Wirtz is still finding his feet in English football.
With so many issues, Liverpool’s title defense already looks doomed, and even a top-four finish seems unlikely unless they can win this year’s Champions League. Despite their domestic struggles, the Reds have fared better in Europe, winning three of four group matches and currently holding the eighth and final automatic qualification spot for the round of 16. Their recent form, however, is concerning: two wins and three defeats in their last five games, including the heavy loss to Forest. Still, European nights at Anfield have provided some respite, with Liverpool beating Eintracht Frankfurt (5-1) and Real Madrid (1-0) in this campaign.
Liverpool have won two of their last three home games, and three of their last five matches have seen both teams score. They remain unbeaten in their last 16 group-stage or league-phase European games at Anfield, but this streak faces a stern test against an in-form PSV.
PSV, currently 18th in the Champions League standings with five points from four games, have enjoyed a strong run of form, unbeaten in 11 matches and winning eight of those. Their European campaign has included a 6-2 demolition of Napoli and 1-1 draws with Bayer Leverkusen and Olympiacos, following an opening 3-1 defeat to Union Saint-Gilloise. PSV’s matches tend to be high-scoring affairs, with over 2.5 goals in six of their last eight games and both teams scoring in six of their last seven.
Historically, Liverpool have enjoyed the upper hand against PSV, winning five of seven previous meetings, including three at Anfield. However, given the Reds’ current vulnerability, Bosz’s side will fancy their chances of ending that run. PSV have also responded well since their opening defeat, and their attacking approach under Bosz has seen them score nine and concede seven in four Champions League games.
While PSV have only won once in their last 14 matches against English opposition, the current state of Liverpool makes this a prime opportunity for the Dutch champions to capitalize. With a place in the knockout phase playoffs on the line, and several teams close behind in the standings, PSV will be eager to take advantage of Liverpool’s struggles and secure a crucial result at Anfield.
Liverpool vs PSV Betting Tips
Liverpool vs PSV Betting Offer
If you are on the lookout for the latest free bet offers, then look no further. Here, not only do we bring you numerous free bet offers, but all from the very best betting sites in the industry. Each bookie we recommend is fully licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission, so you know you are always betting on a safe and trustworthy site.
Check out the Mirror Betting Hubs Free Bets offers here.
Full terms and conditions apply | gambleaware.org | Gamble responsibly | 18+ | UK only
Gamble responsibly
Reach plc is committed to promoting safer gambling. All of our content and recommended bets are advised to those aged 18 or over. Odds are subject to change too.
We strongly encourage our readers to only ever bet what they can afford to lose. For more information, please call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or visit gambleaware.org.