Liverpool vs Crystal Palace Prediction & Betting Tips (29 October)

Liverpool enter their EFL Cup clash against Crystal Palace with a mix of optimism and urgency. After a turbulent stretch of four consecutive defeats, including a painful 2-1 loss to Manchester United at Anfield, Arne Slot’s side bounced back emphatically with a 5-1 demolition of Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League. That result showcased the attacking prowess of the Reds, with goals from Ekitike, Van Dijk, Konate, Gakpo, and Szoboszlai. However, the injury list remains a concern. Alexander Isak was withdrawn at halftime against Frankfurt due to a groin issue, and Jeremie Frimpong also limped off early. Slot confirmed that Ryan Gravenberch is now fully fit, while Ibrahima Konate has returned to training and is expected to start alongside Van Dijk in defense.

Crystal Palace, meanwhile, are navigating a challenging period themselves. After a strong start to the season and a historic FA Cup win last term, Oliver Glasner’s men have stumbled in recent weeks. They suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to AEK Larnaca in their first home European fixture, and their domestic form has dipped with no wins in their last three Premier League outings. The Eagles were held to a thrilling 3-3 draw by Bournemouth and then fell to Arsenal in a tightly contested London derby. Glasner has urged his squad to remain humble and focused, especially with speculation swirling around key players like Marc Guehi, who is expected to leave next summer. The manager’s own contract situation remains unresolved, adding another layer of uncertainty to the club’s future.

Despite their recent setbacks, both teams possess enough firepower to make this EFL Cup encounter a compelling contest. Liverpool’s midfield, anchored by Mac Allister and Szoboszlai, has shown flashes of brilliance, while Salah continues to be a focal point despite a dip in form. Palace will look to their attacking talents, including Viktor Gyokeres, who recently ended his goal drought, to challenge Liverpool’s defense. The tactical battle between Slot’s high-pressing style and Glasner’s counter-attacking setup could define the rhythm of the match. With both managers under pressure to deliver results, expect a fiercely competitive fixture that could swing on individual moments of quality or defensive lapses.

As for the prediction, the balance of form and squad depth tilts slightly in Liverpool’s favor. While Palace have shown resilience and flair, their recent defensive vulnerabilities and lack of consistency in front of goal may prove costly against a rejuvenated Liverpool side. The Reds, buoyed by their Champions League resurgence and the return of key players, are likely to edge this contest. Expect a tightly fought match with Liverpool prevailing 2-1, securing their passage to the next round of the EFL Cup and offering Slot a much-needed boost in his managerial campaign.