Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur Tips and Odds – 06/02/2025

• Date: Thursday, February 6, 2025
• Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
• Fixture: Liverpool vs Tottenham Hotspur (EFL Cup Semi-Final, Second Leg)

Match Preview

The Anfield cauldron awaits a pivotal EFL Cup semi-final second leg that promises to be a tactical chess match with high-octane football. Liverpool find themselves in an unfamiliar position of needing to overturn a 1-0 deficit against Tottenham Hotspur, a scenario that will test their mental resilience and tactical adaptability under new manager Arne Slot. The first leg in North London saw Tottenham secure a slender but crucial advantage through a pragmatic performance that highlighted Ange Postecoglou’s evolving tactical philosophy.

Liverpool, traditionally dominant in cup competitions, now face one of their most significant challenges of the season, with the weight of expectation firmly on their shoulders.Tactical nuances will play a critical role in this encounter. Liverpool’s typically aggressive high-pressing style might be tempered by the need for calculated risk, knowing one conceded goal could effectively end their cup dreams. Arne Slot, who has been implementing his tactical blueprint since arriving from Feyenoord, will need to balance attacking intent with defensive solidity.

Tottenham’s counter-attacking strategy, which has been their hallmark under Postecoglou, presents a significant threat. The combination of Son Heung-min’s blistering pace and creative vision could exploit any spaces left by Liverpool’s attacking full-backs, particularly with Alexander-Arnold missing through injury. Liverpool’s midfield, potentially featuring the experienced Wataru Endo and the dynamic Curtis Jones, will be crucial in controlling the game’s tempo and creating opportunities. The absence of Alexander-Arnold is a substantial blow.

Weather conditions at Anfield are expected to be typical Liverpool winter fare – cold, potentially wet, with a gusty wind that could add an extra layer of unpredictability to the match. Such conditions often favor the home team, who are more accustomed to the environment.The psychological battle will be equally fascinating. Liverpool, with their rich cup history, will feel confident of overturning the deficit. Tottenham, sensing a potential breakthrough moment under Postecoglou, will be equally motivated to reach their first major cup final in recent years.

Key Players

For Liverpool, Mohamed Salah represents a constant attacking threat with his exceptional goal-scoring prowess and creative playmaking abilities that could potentially unlock Tottenham’s defensive structure. Virgil van Dijk brings immense defensive leadership and commanding aerial presence, providing crucial stability at the heart of Liverpool’s backline.

As for Tottenham, Son Heung-min remains a lethal counter-attacking weapon whose blistering pace and clinical finishing can decisively change the momentum of the match in an instant. Rodrigo Bentancur offers exceptional midfield control and tactical intelligence, providing crucial link-up play between defense and attack.

Prediction and Betting Markets

Our prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Tottenham (Liverpool to win on penalties).

With the electric atmosphere of Anfield and the high stakes involved, this promises to be a thrilling encounter that could go down to the wire, potentially defining both teams’ seasons.