Liverpool arrive in Eindhoven with their place in the Champions League last 16 already secured, here’s why the Moneyman is backing PSV to edge Arne Slot’s heavily rotated Reds.

While finishing top of the league phase would be a nice bonus, it’s hardly a necessity given the new knockout format. With a crucial run of domestic fixtures ahead—including an EFL Cup semi-final and a Merseyside derby—Slot has opted to leave several key players at home.

Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ryan Gravenberch, and Alisson have all been rested and have not traveled with the squad. That means Liverpool will be without their captain, star forward, chief playmaker from deep, a promising midfielder, and their world-class goalkeeper. With so much quality missing, Liverpool’s starting XI will be severely weakened.

PSV’s Home Fortress

While Liverpool have historically dominated PSV in the Champions League, Eindhoven is no easy place to visit. The Dutch champions are unbeaten at home in European competition since April 2022, and their overall record at the Philips Stadion is even more impressive—just one defeat in their last 53 home games across all competitions.

Even when not at their best, Peter Bosz’s side have found ways to grind out results, as seen in their recent 3-2 win over NAC Breda. With their place in the last 16 not yet mathematically secured, they will be highly motivated to get a result.

PSV’s Stability vs Liverpool’s Rotation

PSV do have absences, with Ryan Flamingo suspended and Malik Tillman likely sidelined, but they will still field a largely familiar lineup. Luuk de Jong, chasing a club record in the Champions League, will lead the line, while Johan Bakayoko will look to make an impression against a club that has tracked his progress for some time.

Liverpool’s second-string players, on the other hand, are undoubtedly talented but could struggle for cohesion against a PSV side that plays with a clear identity. Without Van Dijk’s leadership at the back, Alisson’s shot-stopping, and Salah’s attacking threat, the Reds may find themselves on the back foot for large spells.

Prediction: A Tight PSV Victory

Liverpool’s rotated squad will still be competitive, but PSV’s home advantage, superior motivation, and more settled lineup make them slight favorites. Expect a hard-fought contest, but the hosts should edge this by a single goal.

Photo: Molly Darlington/Copa/Getty Images