Fulham vs Liverpool: Match Preview and Prediction

As the Premier League action heats up in the early days of 2026, all eyes turn to Craven Cottage where Fulham host Liverpool on January 4. With both teams coming off draws in midweek, this clash promises intrigue as the Reds look to regain momentum amid a congested fixture list, while the Cottagers aim to punch above their weight against one of the league's heavyweights. Liverpool, sitting in fourth place with 33 points, are chasing consistency, whereas Fulham's 27 points place them comfortably in 11th. Kickoff is set for a Sunday afternoon showdown, and with key players absent due to injuries and international duties, expect a tactical battle. Recent Form Fulham have shown resilience lately, stringing together a solid run before their latest result. Their Premier League form reads: L, L, W, W, W, D, including three straight wins snapped by a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace. Across all competitions, it's been a mixed bag: L, W, L, W, W, D. Marco Silva's side has been particularly strong at home, where Harry Wilson has contributed four goal involvements in his last seven appearances at Craven Cottage—more than in his previous 20 combined. Liverpool, under Arne Slot, have been grinding out results but hit a bump with a goalless draw against Leeds United on Thursday. Their league form: D, D, W, W, W, D, reflects a team capable of streaks but vulnerable to fatigue. In all competitions: D, W, W, W, W, D. The Reds' attack has been potent, but defensive solidity will be tested without several stars. Head-to-Head Record Historically, Liverpool dominate this fixture. In 38 meetings since 2001, the Reds have claimed 22 victories, while Fulham have managed just 8 wins, with the rest ending in draws. Goals have flowed freely in recent encounters, with 20 netted across the last four Premier League clashes between the sides. Fulham did upset the odds last season, drawing 2-2 at Anfield and winning 3-2 at home, but Liverpool's overall edge—45 wins to Fulham's 14 in 79 total meetings—makes them the favorites. Team News Fulham face several absences. Kenny Tete is doubtful with a hamstring issue from midweek, paving the way for Timothy Castagne's return. Josh King (knee), Ryan Sessegnon (hamstring), and Rodrigo Muniz (hamstring) are out, while Samuel Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi, and Calvin Bassey are away at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Raul Jimenez will likely lead the line, supported by the in-form Wilson. For Liverpool, Arne Slot mentioned careful management for Florian Wirtz's hamstring, potentially seeing him rested. Alexander Isak (ankle), Giovanni Leoni (ACL), and Mohamed Salah (AFCON) are confirmed absentees. Wataru Endo (ankle) is likely out, but Joe Gomez (muscle) has a slim chance of featuring. Expect rotations, with Cody Gakpo, Alexis Mac Allister, and Milos Kerkez pushing for starts after midweek rests. Possible Lineups Fulham (4-2-3-1): Leno; Castagne, Andersen, Cuenca, Robinson; Lukic, Berge; Wilson, Smith Rowe, Kevin; Jimenez Liverpool (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Jones; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Gakpo; Ekitike These setups reflect both managers' preferences for balance, with Fulham relying on midfield solidity and Liverpool leveraging their attacking depth despite absences. Prediction This matchup has all the makings of a competitive affair, especially given the high-scoring history and both teams' recent draws. Fulham's home form and Liverpool's injury woes could level the playing field, but the Reds' quality should shine through. However, with fatigue from Thursday's games and key players missing, a stalemate feels likely. I'll go with a 1-1 draw, where both sides share the spoils in a tightly contested battle.