Liverpool vs Barnsley Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Monday, 12 January

Liverpool are set to face Barnsley in an exciting FA Cup clash at Anfield on Monday, 12 January. This match promises to be an intriguing contest as Liverpool, a top-tier Premier League side, take on Barnsley, who are eager to make their mark in this prestigious competition. The FA Cup is renowned for its surprises, and Barnsley will be hoping to cause an upset against the formidable Liverpool outfit.

Anfield, the iconic home of Liverpool, will provide the backdrop for this encounter. With their rich history and strong squad, Liverpool are expected to dominate, but Barnsley will look to harness the magic of the FA Cup to challenge their illustrious opponents. As we explore the prediction, match preview, and betting tips, it’s important to consider Liverpool’s home advantage and Barnsley’s determination to make an impact.

Liverpool vs Barnsley Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Draw – Liverpool (-2) (EH)	4.33

Given Liverpool’s current form and Barnsley’s struggles in League One, our recommended betting tip is Liverpool to win with a -2 handicap. Liverpool’s unbeaten streak at home and Barnsley’s lower league status strongly suggest a dominant win for the home side.

• Liverpool have not lost in seven consecutive home matches in this competition, underlining their strong home advantage.
• Barnsley are in poor form in League One, currently sitting 17th, and have struggled against stronger teams.
• The quality gap between Premier League and League One sides is substantial, making a convincing Liverpool win highly likely.

Betting Odds

Liverpool are the clear favourites in this FA Cup tie against Barnsley, with the betting odds heavily in their favour. The Reds are priced at 1.16, reflecting their dominance at Anfield and Barnsley’s underdog status.

Betting Tip	Odds
Liverpool to win	1.16
Draw	7.79
Barnsley to win	12.87

For those seeking a punt, the odds on a draw at 7.79 or a shock Barnsley win at 12.87 could be tempting. Given Liverpool’s attacking prowess, markets for over 2.5 goals and Liverpool to win with a clean sheet may also appeal.

Liverpool Analysis & Past Performance

Liverpool have shown resilient form in recent fixtures, remaining unbeaten in their last ten matches. Their recent results have included a mix of victories and draws, with key outcomes such as a 2-1 win over Wolverhampton and a solid 2-2 draw against Fulham.

Home Side	Away Side	Result	League	Date
Arsenal	Liverpool	0 – 0 (Draw)	Premier League	8 Jan 2026
Fulham	Liverpool	2 – 2 (Draw)	Premier League	4 Jan 2026
Liverpool	Leeds	0 – 0 (Draw)	Premier League	1 Jan 2026
Liverpool	Wolverhampton	2 – 1 (Win)	Premier League	27 Dec 2025
Tottenham	Liverpool	1 – 2 (Win)	Premier League	20 Dec 2025

Recent Form:
Liverpool’s attacking unit has averaged 1.50 goals per game over their last ten matches, scoring in eight of these encounters. Defensively, they have been relatively solid, keeping five clean sheets and conceding an average of 0.80 goals per match. This defensive strength was evident in their 0-0 draw at Arsenal.

Home Performance:

• DDDWW

At Anfield, Liverpool have experienced mixed results, winning four, drawing two, and losing four of their last ten home matches. Their home win ratio stands at 40%, indicating room for improvement. Nevertheless, they have demonstrated resilience, particularly in tight matches, showing the ability to grind out results even when not at their best.

Liverpool Suspensions & Injuries

Liverpool approach this FA Cup clash against Barnsley with a clean bill of health regarding suspensions, allowing manager Arne Slot to select from a full roster of available players. This gives Liverpool a strategic advantage, as their squad depth will be crucial in maintaining a competitive edge throughout the match.

The absence of any injured players in the current line-up, including key figures such as Giovanni Leoni, Alexander Isak, Wataru Endo, and Stefan Bajcetic, means the team can maintain its preferred tactical formations without forced adjustments. This should allow Liverpool to stick to their attacking style, leveraging the strengths of players like Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai.

With no suspensions affecting the squad, Liverpool’s tactical setup should remain intact, enabling them to implement their high-pressing strategy effectively. This continuity in player availability ensures Liverpool can focus on executing their game plan with precision, potentially overwhelming Barnsley with cohesive team play.

From a betting perspective, the lack of injuries or suspensions enhances Liverpool’s prospects in this fixture, as the team’s full strength could be a decisive factor. Bettors may wish to consider this when evaluating Liverpool’s chances of progressing in the FA Cup, given their ability to field a consistent and strong line-up.

Liverpool Key Players

Liverpool’s key players are expected to make a significant impact in their upcoming FA Cup tie against Barnsley at Anfield. Although specific data on their top scorer is unavailable, Liverpool’s attacking threat is typically led by dynamic forwards renowned for their clinical finishing and ability to exploit defensive weaknesses. Their forward line, known for its pace and precision, will be crucial in breaking down Barnsley’s defence.

In midfield, Liverpool often rely on their playmakers to control the tempo and provide creative outlets. The midfielders’ ability to link up with the forwards and deliver precise passes will be vital in unlocking Barnsley’s defensive setup. Additionally, Liverpool’s midfield is known for its defensive work rate, frequently breaking up play and regaining possession quickly.

Defensively, Liverpool’s backline is expected to provide a solid foundation, with centre-backs adept at both aerial duels and ball distribution. The defensive unit’s organisation and tactical awareness will be key in maintaining a clean sheet. Overall, Liverpool’s blend of attacking flair, midfield creativity, and defensive solidity makes them formidable opponents in this fixture.

Liverpool Tactics and Formation

Liverpool Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-4-2-1
• Key Forward: Florian Wirtz
• Midfield Creativity: Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai
• Defensive Resilience: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High pressing and fluid attacking transitions.

Liverpool’s recent tactical approach has seen them deploy a 3-4-2-1 formation, offering flexibility in both attack and defence. With Florian Wirtz leading the line, supported by the creative presence of Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai, Liverpool aim to break down defences with quick, incisive passing.

Defensively, the trio of Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, and either Conor Bradley or Milos Kerkez provides robust protection. Their ability to maintain a high defensive line enables Liverpool to press aggressively, win back possession swiftly, and limit the opposition’s time on the ball.

Offensively, the wing-backs, particularly Jeremie Frimpong, provide width and support for the central midfielders. Liverpool’s high pressing and rapid transitions have been key to their strategy, although the absence of players like Giovanni Leoni and Alexander Isak due to injury may test their depth.

Barnsley Analysis & Past Performance

Barnsley have struggled to find consistent form recently, with just one win in their last five League One matches. Their recent run includes a 1-1 draw against Wigan and a notable 3-2 victory over Leyton Orient, but disappointing defeats to Lincoln City and Mansfield have highlighted their inconsistency.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Wigan	Barnsley	1 – 1 (Draw)	League One	1 Jan 2026
Barnsley	Lincoln City	0 – 2 (Loss)	League One	29 Dec 2025
Barnsley	Mansfield	2 – 3 (Loss)	League One	26 Dec 2025
Exeter	Barnsley	3 – 0 (Loss)	League One	20 Dec 2025
Barnsley	Leyton Orient	3 – 2 (Win)	League One	13 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

• DLLLW

In their last five games, Barnsley have averaged 1.20 goals per match while conceding 2.20 goals per game, indicating defensive vulnerabilities. They have managed to score in three of these matches but have failed to keep a single clean sheet. Their away form remains a concern, with just one win from five away fixtures and a win ratio of 20% on the road.

Barnsley Suspensions & Injuries

Barnsley approach the FA Cup encounter against Liverpool with the advantage of having no injuries or suspensions in their squad. This full availability allows manager Conor Hourihane to field his strongest line-up without any forced changes, which is crucial when facing a formidable opponent like Liverpool at Anfield.

The absence of injury concerns means Barnsley can maintain their preferred tactics and formation. Players such as Murphy Cooper in goal, and a defensive line comprising Tennai Watson, Maël Durand de Gevigney, Jack Shepherd, and Josh Earl, are all available to start, ensuring defensive stability.

In midfield, the likes of Adam Phillips, Luca Connell, and Fabio Jalo provide creativity and dynamism, while Patrick Kelly and David McGoldrick can contribute both defensively and offensively. Up front, Devante Keillor-Dunn is expected to lead the attack, looking to exploit any opportunities against Liverpool’s defence.

With a full squad at his disposal, Hourihane can focus on tactical nuances and potential in-game adjustments rather than patching up the team due to absences. This could be a significant factor in their approach to managing the game against Liverpool, as Barnsley will look to leverage every player’s strengths to counter the home side’s threats.

Barnsley Key Players

Barnsley’s attacking threat will be spearheaded by their top scorer, Devante Keillor-Dunn, who has netted two goals this season. Keillor-Dunn’s ability to find space and his clinical finishing make him a constant danger in the final third. His role as a forward is pivotal, as he will look to exploit any weaknesses in Liverpool’s defence, particularly through intelligent positioning and sharp movement.

In midfield, Barnsley will rely heavily on their playmakers to control the tempo and provide vital support to the forwards. Their ability to transition quickly from defence to attack will be crucial, especially against a high-pressing Liverpool side. The midfield’s tactical impact will be essential in maintaining possession and creating scoring opportunities.

Defensively, Barnsley’s backline will be tasked with containing Liverpool’s dynamic attack. The defenders’ strengths lie in their organisation and physicality, which will be vital in disrupting Liverpool’s rhythm and preventing goal-scoring chances. Their ability to remain disciplined and cohesive as a unit will significantly influence the match’s outcome.

Barnsley Tactics and Formation

Barnsley Tactical Breakdown:

• Previous Formation: 4-1-4-1
• Key Forward: Devante Keillor-Dunn
• Midfield Engine: Adam Phillips and Luca Connell
• Defensive Record: Zero clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High possession play but vulnerable on counterattacks.

Barnsley recently utilised a 4-1-4-1 formation against Wigan, aiming to dominate possession, as reflected in their 61% possession. The midfield, led by Adam Phillips and Luca Connell, plays a pivotal role in both controlling play and transitioning into attack. This setup allows Barnsley to assert themselves in midfield battles, though it can sometimes leave them exposed to counterattacks.

Defensively, the backline comprising Tennai Watson, Maël Durand de Gevigney, Jack Shepherd, and Josh Earl has struggled to keep clean sheets, conceding in each of their last five games. This vulnerability has been a concern, particularly against teams with quick transitions.

Offensively, Devante Keillor-Dunn is a key figure, leading the attack and currently Barnsley’s top scorer. The team tends to create chances through sustained pressure and ball retention, but converting these opportunities remains a challenge, as shown by their recent record of one win in five matches.

Liverpool vs Barnsley Head-to-Head Record

In their only head-to-head encounter, Barnsley pulled off a surprise 2-1 victory over Liverpool at Anfield. This FA Cup clash in February 2008 saw Barnsley defy the odds, knocking Liverpool out of the competition. It’s been some time since these two sides met, and Liverpool will be eager to set the record straight.

The last meeting was indeed in the FA Cup, the same competition as their upcoming fixture. Liverpool, playing at home once again, will look to avoid a repeat of the past and use their home advantage to turn the tables this time.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Liverpool	Barnsley	1 – 2	FA Cup	2008-02-16