Match preview: Craven Cottage set for a Premier League classic
Fulham welcome Liverpool to Craven Cottage on 04/01/2026 in a fixture that looks like a classic clash of momentum versus quality. The home side sit 11th in the table with 27 points from 19 games, a team that has produced spirited results in recent weeks — three wins in their last five competitive outings and a confident 3-2 victory over Liverpool earlier in the year still fresh in memory. Fulham’s recent form reads like a rollercoaster: draws, wins and the odd defeat, and they arrive off a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace where Tom Cairney was the pick of the bunch. The atmosphere in Shepherd’s Bush will be electric for a stadium that holds 25,700, and Fulham will be banking on home comfort and the residual confidence of scoring in tight games.
Liverpool, meanwhile, sit fourth with 33 points and arrive with a clearer rhythm in the engine room. Jurgen Klopp’s men are producing more entries into the opposition box — Liverpool average 111.74 attacks and 61.32 dangerous attacks compared to Fulham’s 88.32 attacks and 47.26 dangerous attacks — and they’ve been clinical enough to collect 10 wins in 19 outings. Their last two results include solid wins and a stalemate with Leeds, where Virgil van Dijk stood out. Statistically Liverpool create more, shoot more (291 total shots to Fulham’s 227) and have a slightly superior goals tally (30 to Fulham’s 26). Those numbers point to an away side that can sustain pressure and convert chances on the road.
Tactical snapshot and head-to-head
This fixture promises tactical intrigue. Fulham have been competitive at home — 15 goals scored and 10 conceded at Craven Cottage — while Liverpool’s away return shows balance with 15 goals scored and 16 conceded. Both teams have the capacity to score, and the season’s numbers indicate a tilt toward open play: Liverpool’s matches have seen over 2.5 goals in a majority of their fixtures (63.16% over 2.5), and overall both sides have shown the ability to produce chances. The recent head-to-head saw Fulham win 3-2 in April, a reminder that nothing here is guaranteed.
Bookmakers make Liverpool marginal favourites with away odds at 1.93, the draw at 3.65 and Fulham as outsiders at 3.75. Referee Craig Pawson will take charge, and his presence can impact the rhythm in tight encounters — expect a competitive, combative 90 minutes.
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Prediction and betting suggestion
This looks like a game Liverpool should edge. Their superior attacking volume, better conversion of chances across the season and higher league position make them the safer selection on the 1X2 market. The bookmakers’ price of 1.93 for an away win reflects that balance of probability and value. Backing Liverpool to win (Away) is the recommended play: it aligns with the data showing Liverpool’s higher attack metrics, consistent form, and a history of breaking down opponents even away from home. Stake sensibly and factor in Fulham’s ability to spring surprises at Craven Cottage — a cautious approach is advised.
