Liverpool vs PSV Eindhoven Match Preview: UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase
Match Details
Competition: UEFA Champions League 2025/26 – League Phase (Matchday 5)
Date: Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Kick-Off: 20:00 GMT (21:00 CET)
Venue: Anfield, Liverpool, England
Referee: TBA
TV Coverage: TNT Sports (UK), Paramount+ (US)
Current Standings and Context
This Champions League encounter brings together Liverpool and PSV Eindhoven in dramatically contrasting circumstances. The Reds enter this fixture seeking to bounce back from a challenging domestic period, while PSV arrive in cautious yet confident mood following their recent European exploits.
Liverpool currently sit in a respectable position in the Champions League standings with nine points from four matches, having produced their best performance of the season with a stunning victory over Real Madrid on their last European outing. However, their domestic form has been concerning, with the defending Premier League champions enduring a difficult spell that has seen them win just one of their last seven league matches.
PSV Eindhoven occupy a precarious position, sitting in the playoff qualification zone but needing points to secure their knockout stage participation. The Dutch champions have just one win from their opening four fixtures but remain unbeaten away from home in European competition this season, making them a tricky proposition for Liverpool at Anfield.
This match represents a crucial opportunity for both teams. Liverpool need to rediscover their winning formula and use European success to reignite their struggling domestic campaign, while PSV must capitalize on the hosts’ vulnerability to secure a positive result that strengthens their qualification prospects.
Team Form Analysis
Liverpool – Domestic Struggles, European Resilience
Arne Slot’s Liverpool are experiencing the most turbulent period of the Dutchman’s tenure at Anfield. The Reds suffered a humiliating home defeat on Saturday, losing to Nottingham Forest at Anfield, extending their worrying run of form that has seen them collect just one victory from their last seven Premier League matches.
This domestic crisis represents a dramatic fall from grace for the defending champions. Liverpool have lost six of their last seven league games, a catastrophic run that has seen them plummet to the lower reaches of the Premier League table. The £450 million summer investment has failed to produce the expected results, with their title defense lying in tatters after just 12 matches.
However, Liverpool’s European form provides a stark contrast to their domestic woes. They currently have nine points from four Champions League matches, with their only defeat coming in a memorable encounter at PSV last season when the Dutch side triumphed. Most encouragingly, Liverpool produced their finest performance of the campaign on the last matchday, securing an impressive victory over Real Madrid that demonstrated their capability when fully focused.
Recent Form (Last 5 matches across all competitions):
W-L-L-D-L
Home Record – Anfield Under Siege:
The fortress that was Anfield has become vulnerable. Liverpool’s home defeat to Nottingham Forest marked a significant psychological blow, with the usually intimidating atmosphere unable to inspire the players. Manager Arne Slot’s position remains safe for now, but he desperately needs to restore confidence and get Liverpool back to its best, starting with this European fixture.
Despite recent struggles, Liverpool maintains a strong overall record at Anfield in European competition. They face PSV, having won five of their seven previous Champions League meetings with Dutch opposition, though crucially, PSV handed them their only defeat in last season’s league phase with a thrilling victory in Eindhoven.
PSV Eindhoven – Eredivisie Leaders, European Fighters
Peter Bosz’s PSV present a fascinating contrast between their domestic dominance and European struggles. The Dutch champions currently lead the Eredivisie table after 12 matches, demonstrating their superiority in domestic competition. However, their grip on top spot has been threatened recently, with Ajax closing the gap to just four points.
PSV arrive at Anfield fresh from a hard-fought victory over NAC Breda at the weekend, though the match proved more difficult than expected. Earlier in November, they dropped unexpected points with a draw against AZ and suffered a shocking defeat to PEC Zwolle, results that have allowed Ajax to mount a serious title challenge.
In the Champions League, PSV have shown commendable resilience despite collecting just one win from four matches. Most impressively, they remain unbeaten away from home in European competition this season, a record that will provide confidence heading to Anfield. Their most recent European fixture saw them secure a dramatic victory over Red Star Belgrade, coming from behind to win in Serbia and secure their place in the knockout play-offs.
Recent Form (Last 5 matches across all competitions):
W-W-W-D-L
Away Record:
PSV’s unbeaten away record in Europe this season represents their most significant asset. They have demonstrated the tactical discipline and mental strength required to navigate hostile environments, qualities that will be essential at Anfield. Their victory over Liverpool in Eindhoven last season provides both psychological advantage and tactical blueprint for causing problems.
Head-to-Head Record
Liverpool and PSV have faced each other seven times in Champions League competition, with the historical record heavily favoring the English giants. Liverpool have won five encounters, drawn one, and lost once, establishing clear dominance over their Dutch opponents.
Recent Encounters:
The most significant recent meeting came last season when PSV stunned Liverpool with a memorable victory in Eindhoven. That triumph handed the Reds their only defeat in the entire league phase campaign, demonstrating PSV’s capability of competing with Europe’s elite when circumstances align favorably.
Historical Context:
Liverpool’s five victories against PSV include several memorable encounters at Anfield, where the Reds have traditionally held the upper hand. However, PSV’s confidence from last season’s triumph cannot be underestimated, particularly given Liverpool’s current vulnerability.
The psychological dynamic of this fixture has shifted. Previously, PSV might have arrived at Anfield as significant underdogs, overawed by the occasion. Now, having beaten Liverpool recently and facing opponents in poor domestic form, the Dutch champions will believe they can secure a positive result.
Tactical Analysis
Liverpool’s Approach
Arne Slot faces a critical tactical challenge. The Dutchman must balance the need for victory to restore confidence with the reality that several key players require rest. Reports suggest Liverpool may rotate heavily, prioritizing the tight fixture schedule over securing maximum points in a match where they’ve already virtually secured knockout qualification.
The potential team selection indicates significant rotation, with many first-choice players rested. If Slot proceeds with wholesale changes, Liverpool could field a considerably weakened lineup featuring younger players and squad rotation options. This approach carries significant risk against a PSV team capable of exploiting any defensive vulnerabilities.
Key Tactical Elements:
- High pressing to disrupt PSV’s build-up play
- Utilizing pace on the counter-attack
- Maintaining defensive organization despite personnel changes
- Set-piece threat from corners and free-kicks
- Managing the game intelligently to secure three points
The absence of first-choice defenders and midfielders forces Liverpool to adjust their tactical approach. The inexperienced backline must demonstrate maturity and organization against PSV’s attacking threats, while the midfield needs to control tempo without the authority of their regular starters.
PSV’s Game Plan
Peter Bosz will approach this fixture with cautious optimism. The Dutch manager recognizes Liverpool’s vulnerability while respecting their quality, even with a rotated squad. PSV’s game plan will likely emphasize defensive solidity while remaining alert to counter-attacking opportunities.
PSV have demonstrated throughout their European campaign an ability to remain competitive against superior opposition. Their unbeaten away record suggests tactical flexibility and mental resilience, qualities that could prove decisive at Anfield.
Key Tactical Elements:
- Compact defensive shape to limit space
- Quick transitions from defense to attack
- Exploiting Liverpool’s defensive uncertainties
- Set-piece opportunities as potential scoring chances
- Maintaining discipline and patience throughout
The suspension of Ryan Flamingo weakens PSV’s defensive structure, forcing Bosz to reshuffle his backline. However, PSV possess sufficient quality in their squad to compensate, and the absence of Malik Tillman through injury represents a more significant concern for their creative output.
Team News and Injuries
Liverpool – Mass Rotation Expected
Liverpool face a defining decision regarding team selection. Manager Arne Slot has indicated his intention to rest key players, prioritizing the demanding schedule over securing maximum points in a match where qualification for the knockout rounds is virtually assured.
Confirmed Absences:
- Diogo Jota (deceased – tragic car accident July 2025)
- Joe Gomez (injury)
- Florian Wirtz (fitness doubt – missed Forest defeat)
Players Expected to be Rested:
Multiple reports suggest Slot will leave his strongest XI at home, with Alisson, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Mohamed Salah, and Luis Díaz all potentially omitted from the traveling squad.
Predicted Heavily Rotated XI:
If Liverpool proceed with wholesale changes, the lineup could feature Caoimhín Kelleher in goal, with a defense of Conor Bradley, Jarell Quansah, Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas. The midfield might include Wataru Endō, Tyler Morton and Harvey Elliott, supporting an attack led by Cody Gakpo with young talents like Ben Doak and Jayden Danns.
This rotation strategy represents a calculated gamble. While it provides rest for exhausted regulars, it risks defeat against a dangerous PSV team and could further damage confidence during an already difficult period.
PSV Eindhoven – Key Absences Through Suspension and Injury
PSV travel to Liverpool with several notable concerns affecting their squad depth and tactical flexibility. Most significantly, defender Ryan Flamingo serves a suspension following his red card against Red Star Belgrade, robbing PSV of defensive stability.
Confirmed Absences:
- Ryan Flamingo (suspended – red card)
- Malik Tillman (ankle injury)
- Noa Lang (illness – doubtful)
- Sergiño Dest (doubtful)
- Adama Nagalo (doubtful)
Tactical Adjustments:
Jerdy Schouten is expected to be rested in midfield, with Ismail Saibari likely replacing him. Ricardo Pepi should enter the starting XI, though his exact positioning remains uncertain given Noa Lang’s illness. The American forward could start centrally or operate as a false left winger depending on Lang’s availability.
The absence of Flamingo particularly weakens PSV’s defensive organization. The suspended defender has been crucial to their European performances, and his replacement must demonstrate similar composure under Anfield’s intense atmosphere.
Predicted Lineups
Liverpool (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper: Caoimhín Kelleher
Defense: Conor Bradley, Jarell Quansah, Andy Robertson, Kostas Tsimikas
Midfield: Wataru Endō, Tyler Morton
Attacking Midfield: Harvey Elliott, Owen Beck, Ben Doak
Striker: Cody Gakpo
Substitutes: Vitezslav Jaros, Joe Gomez, Ibrahima Konaté, Curtis Jones, Alexis Mac Allister, Federico Chiesa, Darwin Núñez, Jayden Danns
Note: This heavily rotated lineup assumes Slot proceeds with his indicated rest strategy
PSV Eindhoven (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper: Walter Benítez
Defense: Richard Ledezma, Armando Obispo, Olivier Boscagli, Matteo Dams
Midfield: Ismail Saibari, Joey Veerman
Attacking Midfield: Johan Bakayoko, Guus Til, Ricardo Pepi
Striker: Luuk de Jong
Substitutes: Joël Drommel, Jordan Teze, Mauro Júnior, Jerdy Schouten, Hirving Lozano, Noa Lang, Ivan Perišić
Key Players to Watch
Liverpool
Cody Gakpo: The Dutch forward returns to face his compatriots in what could be an emotional encounter. Gakpo has been recovering from an ankle injury and will be eager to make an impact if selected. His familiarity with Dutch football and PSV’s defensive tendencies provides tactical advantage.
Harvey Elliott: The English midfielder has been in exceptional form in the Champions League, scoring in Liverpool’s last three European matches. His ability to find space and deliver quality in the final third makes him Liverpool’s most dangerous attacking threat if starting.
Caoimhín Kelleher: The Irish goalkeeper must demonstrate leadership and composure if selected. Kelleher has previously proven his quality in high-pressure situations and will need to marshal an inexperienced defense against PSV’s attacking threats.
Dominik Szoboszlai: If the Hungarian midfielder features, his energy and creativity from midfield will be crucial. However, reports suggest he may be rested, placing additional responsibility on younger players to control the tempo.
PSV Eindhoven
Luuk de Jong: The experienced Dutch striker represents PSV’s primary goal threat. De Jong’s physical presence, aerial ability and clinical finishing make him dangerous in and around the penalty area. His movement and positioning will test Liverpool’s potentially inexperienced center-backs throughout the match.
Johan Bakayoko: The Belgian winger has been impressive this season and provides pace, directness and unpredictability down the flanks. His ability to beat defenders one-on-one could exploit any defensive uncertainties in Liverpool’s rotated backline.
Joey Veerman: The Dutch midfielder orchestrates PSV’s play with exceptional vision and passing range. His ability to control tempo and create scoring opportunities will be vital in unlocking Liverpool’s defense.
Jerdy Schouten: Though expected to be rested, if he features, the midfielder’s defensive work rate and tactical intelligence provide the foundation for PSV’s counter-attacking approach. His absence could weaken their defensive shield significantly.
Statistical Insights
Liverpool Statistics
- 9 points from four Champions League matches (3W, 0D, 1L)
- Only defeat came at PSV last season (3-2)
- Won five of seven Champions League meetings with PSV
- Currently 12th in Premier League after 12 matches
- Won just one of last seven Premier League matches
- Lost 3-0 at home to Nottingham Forest most recently
- Secured impressive victory over Real Madrid in last European fixture
PSV Eindhoven Statistics
- Unbeaten away from home in Champions League this season
- One win from four Champions League matches (1W, 2D, 1L)
- Currently lead Eredivisie table after 12 matches
- Ajax have closed gap to four points in title race
- Won 3-2 at Red Star Belgrade in most recent European fixture
- Scored nine goals in Champions League group stage
- Defeated Liverpool 3-2 in Eindhoven last season
Historical Context
- Liverpool have won five of seven Champions League meetings
- PSV’s last victory at Anfield came in their only previous visit
- Liverpool remain favorites despite poor domestic form
- PSV seeking first away victory in England this season
Match Predictions and Betting Insights
Expert Analysis
This fixture presents fascinating tactical and psychological dynamics. Liverpool’s potential mass rotation creates genuine uncertainty about the outcome, while PSV’s confidence from last season’s victory and Liverpool’s domestic struggles provide additional intrigue.
If Liverpool field their strongest XI, they would be overwhelming favorites despite recent poor form. However, widespread reports suggesting wholesale rotation dramatically alter the equation. A weakened Liverpool team facing a confident PSV side capable of exploiting defensive vulnerabilities creates opportunities for an upset.
Bookmakers have Liverpool as favorites, but the odds reflect uncertainty about team selection and Liverpool’s vulnerability. PSV represent genuine value given their unbeaten away record in Europe and Liverpool’s domestic crisis.
Key Factors
- Team Selection: Liverpool’s rotation strategy will determine the match’s trajectory
- Home Advantage: Anfield atmosphere could inspire Liverpool despite recent struggles
- Historical Precedent: PSV defeated Liverpool in Eindhoven last season
- Form Contrast: Liverpool’s domestic crisis vs PSV’s European resilience
- Defensive Concerns: Both teams missing key defenders through suspension/injury
- Tactical Battle: Slot’s rotation risk vs Bosz’s counter-attacking pragmatism
Goals and Scoring Patterns
Expect goals at both ends given defensive vulnerabilities on both sides. Liverpool’s potentially inexperienced backline could struggle with PSV’s attacking threats, while the Dutch champions have conceded regularly in European competition.
Over 2.5 goals represents strong value with high probability. Both teams possess attacking quality capable of troubling weakened defenses, and PSV’s matches have consistently featured goals throughout their European campaign.
Both teams to score appears highly likely given defensive concerns and attacking capabilities on display. Even a weakened Liverpool attack should create chances against PSV’s reshuffled defense missing Flamingo through suspension.
Score Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 PSV Eindhoven
Despite wholesale rotation, Liverpool should possess sufficient quality to secure victory at Anfield. The home advantage, combined with PSV’s defensive vulnerabilities without Flamingo, provides the foundation for a narrow Liverpool triumph.
Harvey Elliott’s exceptional Champions League form should continue, with the English midfielder likely finding the net or providing creative inspiration. Cody Gakpo could prove decisive against his compatriots, using his familiarity with Dutch football to exploit defensive weaknesses.
PSV will score through their attacking quality, most likely via Luuk de Jong’s physical presence or Johan Bakayoko’s pace on the counter. Their unbeaten away record in Europe suggests they won’t be overwhelmed by the occasion, and Liverpool’s defensive inexperience provides opportunities.
However, Liverpool’s desperation for victory to restore confidence, combined with Anfield’s atmosphere and superior individual quality even in rotation, should prove decisive. Arne Slot needs this win to stabilize his position and rebuild momentum, making defeat unacceptable despite the rotation strategy.
Final Verdict
Winner: Liverpool (2-1)
This match represents a critical juncture for Liverpool’s season. The defending Premier League champions desperately need victory to halt their alarming domestic decline and restore confidence throughout the squad. While rotation represents a calculated risk, the psychological importance of avoiding defeat at Anfield cannot be overstated.
Liverpool’s decision to potentially rest key players reflects confidence in their Champions League qualification prospects and acknowledgment of the demanding fixture schedule. However, this strategy carries significant danger. PSV possess the quality and confidence to exploit any complacency or defensive vulnerabilities, particularly given their memorable victory in Eindhoven last season.
PSV will approach this fixture believing they can secure a positive result. Their unbeaten away record in Europe this season demonstrates tactical discipline and mental resilience, while Liverpool’s domestic crisis provides additional encouragement. Peter Bosz will organize his team to remain compact defensively while threatening on the counter-attack, a strategy that could trouble Liverpool’s potentially inexperienced backline.
The absence of Ryan Flamingo through suspension weakens PSV’s defensive structure, while Malik Tillman’s injury removes creative quality from their attacking options. However, players like Luuk de Jong, Johan Bakayoko and Joey Veerman possess sufficient ability to trouble any Liverpool defense, particularly one featuring several rotation players.
For Liverpool, this match represents more than three Champions League points. Arne Slot needs to demonstrate tactical acumen and man-management skills by navigating the rotation challenge while securing victory. The Dutchman’s position remains safe for now, but continued poor results could increase pressure from supporters and ownership alike.
Final Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 PSV Eindhoven
Liverpool will secure a narrow victory that provides temporary relief from their domestic struggles. The rotated team will initially struggle with PSV’s organization and counter-attacking threat, conceding an early goal that tests their resolve. However, Anfield’s atmosphere and individual quality from players like Elliott and Gakpo should ultimately prove decisive.
PSV will leave Anfield with credit despite defeat, having demonstrated their capability of competing with elite opposition. Their European campaign remains on track for knockout qualification, while Liverpool must use this victory as the foundation for rebuilding their shattered domestic form. Expect an entertaining, open encounter that showcases both teams’ attacking qualities while exposing defensive vulnerabilities that could prove costly in future fixtures.
