Liverpool vs Crystal Palace: Match Preview, Opposition Analysis, Lineup Prediction and More
Arne Slot has the chance to win his second trophy as Liverpool boss.
The FA Community Shield is often seen as a curtain-raiser for the new football season, a game that many consider a glorified friendly. But for those teams involved, it holds real significance. If you’re a fan of Liverpool, then the game against Crystal Palace on Sunday is a chance to kick off the new season with silverware. Moreover, this match will carry extra emotional weight, as it will also be a tribute to Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, who tragically passed away in July 2025.
While the significance of the Community Shield is often debated, for Liverpool, it's a perfect opportunity to build momentum and show their strength as they step into a new era under manager Arne Slot. It’s the first chance to see some of the new signings in competitive action, and the team will be eager to make an early statement.
Liverpool's New Look: Fresh Faces Ready to Shine
For Liverpool, this Community Shield clash marks an exciting moment as several new signings will likely make their competitive debuts. One of the most intriguing aspects of the match will be the potential start of Giorgi Mamardashvili in goal, with Alisson Becker having only returned to training recently. The goalkeeper, who was signed to provide competition and depth to the squad, is expected to get the nod ahead of the Brazilian, though there will be no shortage of attention on Liverpool’s defensive reshuffle.
At right-back, Jeremie Frimpong is expected to feature, as young Conor Bradley faces time on the sidelines due to injury. On the opposite flank, Milos Kerkez has made the left-back position his own, adding pace and defensive solidity to Liverpool’s backline. These changes are part of a broader effort by Slot to refresh the squad in attempt to retain the Premier League title.
Of course, the headline signing of the summer for Liverpool is Florian Wirtz. The record-breaking midfielder will likely feature from the start, bringing creativity, vision and immense work rate to the centre of the park. Alongside him, Liverpool fans can look forward to seeing Hugo Ekitike in action. Ekitike’s physicality and movement will provide a real threat to Crystal Palace’s defenders, and he could be a key figure in this match.
Liverpool Starting XI Prediction: Mamardashvili, Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk (C), Kerkez, Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Wirtz, Salah, Ekitike, Gakpo.
Bench: Alisson, Stephenson, Robertson, Tsimikas, Endo, Mac Allister, Jones, Ngumoha, Elliott.
Crystal Palace’s Challenge: Stubborn but Dangerous
While Liverpool will undoubtedly be the favourites for this match, Crystal Palace should not be underestimated. The Eagles will arrive at Wembley with a well-drilled, resolute system, likely in the shape of a 3-4-2-1, that has served them well in recent seasons. Their tactical approach to games, particularly in cup competitions, has made them a difficult side to break down, and Liverpool will need to be sharp to get the better of them.
One of the biggest threats Crystal Palace poses is the creative ability of Eberechi Eze. The midfielder is a player capable of producing moments of magic, with his flair and clinical instinct in front of goal making him a danger, particularly on the big pitch at Wembley. Eze’s ability to pick out spaces and exploit them with his passing and dribbling could cause Liverpool’s defence problems, especially if the Reds aren’t fully alert.
In the middle of the park, Adam Wharton is expected to dictate the tempo for Palace. His precise passing and ability to control the pace of the game will be crucial if Palace are to pose a real threat. At the front, Jean-Philippe Mateta, who has always had an eye for a goal and a physical presence in the air, will be a constant worry for the Liverpool centre-backs. Even though he’s been linked with a move to Anfield in the past, Mateta will be out to prove his worth in this prestigious fixture.
And defensively, Liverpool will have to contend with Marc Guehi, the experienced English centre-back who will lead Palace’s defensive line. With Guehi in charge at the back, Palace will have a solid foundation, but many will be wondering if we could be seeing him in a Liverpool shirt soon…
The Matchup: A Tactical Battle
Liverpool, under Slot, are expected to play with an attacking mindset, utilising the width of the pitch and pressing high to disrupt Palace’s rhythm. The Reds’ new signings will likely be key in implementing this style, as Wirtz’s vision and creativity will be critical in breaking down the Palace defence.
On the other hand, Palace’s approach will be much more conservative, looking to soak up pressure and strike on the counter. With the pace of Eze and the physicality of Mateta, they will try to exploit any mistakes or lapses in concentration from Liverpool’s backline. The game will be a test of Liverpool’s ability to maintain control and take advantage of the spaces that Palace will inevitably leave open.
Head-to-Head Record:
Liverpool wins: 37
Draws: 14
Crystal Palace wins: 15
Last five meetings:
25th May 2025 - Liverpool 1-1 Crystal Palace (Premier League)
5th October 2024 - Crystal Palace 0-1 Liverpool (Premier League)
14th April 2024 - Liverpool 0-1 Crystal Palace (Premier League)
9th December 2023 - Crystal Palace 1-2 Liverpool (Premier League)
25th February 2023 - Crystal Palace 0-0 Liverpool (Premier League)
Prediction: Liverpool’s Strong Start to the Season
While the Community Shield is often viewed as a warm-up for the season ahead, there’s no denying that both teams will be desperate to claim victory. Liverpool will be looking to start the season in style, and with their new signings in place, they should have more than enough firepower to get past Crystal Palace.
Score Prediction: Liverpool 3-1 Crystal Palace
Goalscorers: Salah, Gakpo, Ektike, Eze
For Liverpool, this game presents the perfect opportunity to claim early silverware and set the tone for what promises to be a thrilling season. The emotional tribute to Jota and his brother adds a poignant touch to the occasion, but the focus will quickly shift to the football as Liverpool look to start their 2025/26 campaign with a bang.