Liverpool take on the visitors Bournemouth in the round 1 match of English Premier League. The match will be played on Friday, August 15th at Anfield (Liverpool).
Liverpool have won every possible trophy under Klopp. Naturally, his decision to leave caused huge concern among the fans – as did the choice to appoint Slot as Jürgen’s successor. However, the Dutchman instantly wrote his name into the club’s history, matching one of Klopp’s greatest achievements by winning the Premier League in dominant fashion. This summer, Arne received significant reinforcements – though perhaps partly due to setbacks such as an early Champions League exit and slip-ups in the domestic cups. Still, replacements were needed for Alexander-Arnold, Luis Díaz and, unfortunately, Diogo Jota. Liverpool shocked many with their hyperactive transfer activity, signing Frimpong, Kerkez, Wirtz, and Ékitiké, before entering the race for Isak. Last Sunday in the Community Shield against Crystal Palace, the newcomers shone brightly, but after a 3-3 draw in regular time, the motivated underdogs triumphed on penalties. Slot’s men have looked sharp in pre-season, showing a more vertical, high-tempo attacking style that could be even harder to defend against than last year’s title-winning side. Confidence in the squad is sky-high, and the fans are expecting nothing less than a statement win in the opening match.
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Bournemouth have once again opted for profit while searching for replacements for departing stars. The Cherries returned from the Championship a couple of years ago. In 2023, they appointed Iraola as head coach – his first experience outside Spain – but he impressed, guiding the team to stay in the hunt for European spots for much of the 2024/25 season. This despite selling key striker Solanke the previous year and replacing him effectively, thanks in part to Justin Kluivert hitting top form. This summer, they quickly sold both Højsen and Kerkez in June – the latter joining Liverpool – and took longer to finalise a deal for Zabarnyi, eventually sending him to PSG earlier this week. They also replaced Kepa as first-choice goalkeeper with Petrovic, who impressed on loan at Strasbourg, and added new defender Truffert from France. Now, this new defensive unit faces a major test – stopping Salah and company. Bournemouth’s recent friendlies showed flashes of attacking creativity, but also exposed defensive lapses against quicker, high-pressing sides. Iraola will need a near-perfect tactical setup to avoid a heavy opening-day defeat.
Liverpool have won the last five meetings between these sides. It’s time for Salah and company to secure an official win. Back them with a -1.5 goal handicap.
Prediction for the match: Liverpool to win with -1.5 handicap.
