Plymouth Argyle faces the ultimate test as they welcome Premier League leaders and eight-time FA Cup winners, Liverpool, to Home Park on Sunday, February 9, 2025. With the Reds chasing a historic quadruple under Arne Slot, they enter as overwhelming favorites against a struggling Plymouth side.
However, the hosts will be hoping to cause one of the biggest FA Cup upsets in recent years, drawing inspiration from their recent home win over West Brom. Can they defy the odds and trouble Liverpool?
Kick Off Nigeria editor Ayomide Oguntimehin breaks down the key insights, betting predictions, and best odds ahead of the clash.
Match Preview: Plymouth vs Liverpool
Liverpool will be looking to build on their dominant 4-0 win over Tottenham in the EFL Cup semi-final as they set their sights on another trophy. Their recent performances have been convincing, and with the FA Cup a priority, expect a strong lineup from the Reds.
Meanwhile, Plymouth, currently sitting at the bottom of the EFL Championship, come into this game with nothing to lose. They will need to deliver a near-perfect performance to stand a chance against the rampant Reds.
While upsets have happened in FA Cup history, Plymouth’s form suggests an uphill battle against one of Europe’s elite teams.
Head-to-Head Record
- 08.01.17 – FA Cup | Liverpool 0-0 Plymouth (Anfield)
- 18.01.17 – FA Cup (Replay) | Plymouth 0-1 Liverpool (Home Park)
Liverpool progressed after narrowly winning the replay 1-0.
Liverpool’s Recent Form
Liverpool has been in scintillating form, winning four of their last five matches across all competitions. Their recent dominance includes:
- Tottenham 0-4 Liverpool (EFL Cup)
- Ipswich 1-4 Liverpool (Premier League)
- Bournemouth 0-2 Liverpool (Premier League)
- PSV 3-2 Liverpool (Champions League)
- Nottingham Forest 1-1 Liverpool (Premier League)
Key Stats:
- Scored at least two goals in four of their last five games.
- Three clean sheets in their recent matches.
- Won three of their last five away games.
Liverpool’s attack remains one of the most potent in England, and their defensive record has been solid, making them heavy favorites for this matchup.
Plymouth’s Recent Form
Plymouth’s struggles in the Championship continue, with just one win in their last five matches. They have been inconsistent, leaking goals while failing to see out results.
- Plymouth 2-1 West Brom
- Burnley 5-0 Plymouth
- QPR 1-0 Plymouth
- Sunderland 2-2 Plymouth
- Oxford United 1-1 Plymouth
Key Stats:
- Conceded nine goals in their last three home games.
- One home win in their last five matches.
- Struggled to score against stronger opponents.
Plymouth will need a massive defensive improvement to avoid a heavy defeat at the hands of Liverpool.
Player to Watch – Mohamed Tijani
Plymouth’s on-loan defender Mohamed Tijani will be key if the hosts are to stand any chance against Liverpool’s attack. The Slavia Prague loanee has only one assist in his last four games, but his physical presence and defensive capabilities could help Plymouth hold firm at the back.
Having struggled with injuries, Tijani will need to deliver a commanding performance if his side is to frustrate Liverpool.
Best Betting Tips & Odds
Liverpool to Win – 1.17 (1xbet) – Safe bet, given the form and quality gap between both sides.
Both Teams to Score (NO) – 1.67 (1xbet) – Plymouth may struggle to break down Liverpool’s defense.
Final Prediction
Liverpool should comfortably win this tie, given their superior squad depth and attacking firepower. Plymouth’s defensive vulnerabilities and inconsistency make an upset highly unlikely.
Final Score Prediction: Plymouth 0-3 Liverpool
For those betting, a Liverpool win with a clean sheet looks like the best-value option.
