October 30th will see another round of tantalising Carabao Cup fixtures – among the most eye-catching of which is set to kick off at the Amex. Liverpool are the visitors, and a spot in the quarter-finals is at stake.
Recent Form and Performance
Liverpool’s form in the league has been intimidating. They sit top, having picked up six wins out of seven. Brighton, meanwhile, are down in sixth. Both clubs are something of an unknown quantity, having recruited new managers in the summer. It should be noted, however, that Liverpool have yet to face a stern test in the league; all of their games have come against bottom-half sides.
Key Players to Watch
The EFL cup is often seen as an opportunity for stronger clubs to rotate, and rest legs ahead of a busy December schedule. However, both managers will likely want to make an impression, and the EFL will be seen as a winnable competition. We might therefore see stars like Mohammed Salah and former Liverpool captain James Milner line up.
Fabian Hrzeler masterminded a Merseyside victory in his first Premier League game away to Everton
Tactical Battles
Brighton’s tactical approach under Fabian Hürzeler has been based around high-tempo pressing. So called ‘Slotball’, by contrast, rests on defensive solidity and rapid turnarounds. You might therefore expect to see a conservative game. However, as we’ve noted, Liverpool’s defensive record is, in part, a result of a favourable fixture list. Brighton might provide a sterner test.
Liverpool actually face Brighton again, just a few days after this fixture, in a league game at Anfield. This is likely to be a very different game, with full-strength teams being fielded.
Carabao Cup History Between the Teams
The last time these two faced one another in the Carabao Cup was in 2011. Liverpool picked up a 2-1 away win. However, at the time, Brighton was still a Championship club – and the stadium had only just been constructed.
The American Express Stadium: Brighton’s Fortress
The Amex, as it’s affectionately known among fans, provides a tough test for any visiting team. While Anfield might have a reputation for being an intimidating ground, the same can be said of Brighton’s vocal home support. This might be a difference-maker, especially given the prestige attached to the tie. The club is unbeaten at home this season – which is a record Liverpool can’t boast of. However, the away support for this midweek fixture might be considerable – with a few thousand fans clad in the club’s famous red home kit.
There will be a few local Liverpool fc fans hiding in the home end
Predictions and Potential Outcomes
Brighton’s younger, less expensive side will start the tie as underdogs. However, it should also be noted that Liverpool will be visiting the Emirates a few days prior – and consequently, this fixture might be neglected. Expect a high-scoring draw followed by a victory for the Seagulls in a penalty shootout.