Liverpool vs Barnsley Prediction: Liverpool will defeat Barnsley 4-0 in the FA Cup third round at Anfield on Monday, January 13, 2026, as the Premier League side holds a significant quality advantage over their League One opponents despite facing multiple injury concerns and likely squad rotation.
Match Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Competition | FA Cup Third Round |
| Date | Monday, January 13, 2026 |
| Venue | Anfield Stadium, Liverpool |
| Kick-off Time | 20:00 GMT |
| League Gap | 57 places (Liverpool 4th in Premier League, Barnsley 17th in League One) |
| Recent Form | Liverpool: 10 games unbeaten / Barnsley: 4 games without win |
Key Facts
- Liverpool currently sit fourth in the Premier League standings and face League One opposition in this FA Cup third-round clash.
- The Reds remain unbeaten in their last 10 matches across all competitions, though they have drawn their previous three fixtures.
- Barnsley occupy 17th position in League One with eight wins, five draws, and eight defeats from 21 league matches.
- Liverpool suffered an FA Cup upset last season when Plymouth Argyle defeated them 1-0 in the fourth round.
- The teams last met in February 2008 during an FA Cup fixture, with Liverpool winning 2-1 at Anfield.
- Manager Arne Slot faces multiple injury concerns including Alexander Isak, Conor Bradley, and Mohamed Salah, who remains at the Africa Cup of Nations.
- Barnsley midfielder Luca Connell serves a suspension after receiving a straight red card against Wigan Athletic.
- The visitors have won only two of their last 12 away fixtures, collecting six defeats and four draws during that period.
On This Page
Liverpool vs Barnsley Preview and Prediction
Liverpool welcome Barnsley to Anfield Stadium on Monday evening for an FA Cup third-round encounter that pits Premier League quality against League One determination.
The match kicks off at 20:00 GMT and represents a significant opportunity for the hosts to avoid another cup embarrassment following last season’s shock exit.
Arne Slot’s side began the 2025-26 campaign with impressive momentum, winning seven consecutive matches after their Community Shield penalty defeat to Crystal Palace.
However, a challenging period followed, yielding just three victories in 12 matches alongside nine defeats.
The Reds have since stabilized their form, going 10 games without defeat, though recent performances have lacked cutting edge with three consecutive draws.
Barnsley arrive at Anfield during a difficult spell. The Tykes have failed to secure victory in their last four outings, managing one draw and suffering three defeats.
Their away record proves particularly concerning, with only two wins from 12 road trips in recent months.
Team News and Injuries
Liverpool Injury List
Liverpool face a lengthy injury list that could influence team selection.
Alexander Isak remains unavailable, while Conor Bradley, Giovanni Leoni, Hugo Ekitike, Stefan Bajcetic, and Wataru Endo all miss out through various fitness concerns.
Mohamed Salah continues his absence due to Africa Cup of Nations commitments with Egypt.
The injury situation presents Slot with an opportunity to rotate his squad and provide valuable minutes to fringe players.
Young prospects Trey Nyoni, Rio Ngumoha, and Calvin Ramsay could all feature in the starting lineup. Federico Chiesa may also receive playing time after limited appearances this season.
Barnsley Injury Situation
Barnsley’s squad appears relatively healthy compared to their opponents.
The primary concern involves Luca Connell, who serves a one-match suspension following his dismissal against Wigan Athletic on New Year’s Day.
The midfielder received a straight red card, ruling him out of this crucial cup tie.
The rest of the Barnsley squad remains available for selection.
Manager Darrell Clarke benefits from having no additional injury concerns, though his team has not played since January 1st due to postponed fixtures against Port Vale and Wycombe Wanderers.
Predicted Liverpool vs Barnsley Lineups, Tactical Analysis and Formations
Liverpool typically deploy a 4-3-3 formation under Slot, emphasizing possession-based football and high pressing.
For this fixture, rotation could see the hosts shift to a 4-2-3-1 or maintain their preferred system with less experienced players filling key positions.
The expected Liverpool lineup features Giorgi Mamardashvili in goal, protected by a back four of Calvin Ramsay, Joe Gomez, Andy Robertson, and Robin Kerkez.
The midfield could include Trey Nyoni alongside Alexis Mac Allister, with Federico Chiesa potentially leading the attack supported by Curtis Jones and Rio Ngumoha.
Barnsley favor a pragmatic approach suited to League One competition. Clarke likely sets his team up in a 4-4-2 or 4-5-1 formation, prioritizing defensive organization and counter-attacking opportunities.
The visitors will look to frustrate Liverpool and capitalize on any defensive lapses.
The expected Barnsley lineup includes Ben Mahoney in goal, with Jordan Watson, Mael Gevigney, Josh Shepherd, and Corey Earl forming the defensive line.
Conor Phillips and Liam Bland anchor midfield, while Max Jalo, Liam Kelly, and David McGoldrick provide attacking threat alongside striker Adam Keillor-Dunn.
Head-to-Head Record
Historical meetings between these clubs remain limited. The most recent encounter occurred in February 2008 during an FA Cup fixture at Anfield, where Liverpool secured a 2-1 victory.
Prior to that, the teams faced each other twice during the 1997-98 Premier League season when Barnsley competed in the top flight.
In November 1997, Barnsley shocked Liverpool with a 1-0 victory at Anfield.
The return fixture at Oakwell in March 1998 saw Liverpool claim revenge with a 3-2 win.
These three matches represent the entirety of competitive meetings between the clubs in recent decades.
Key Players to Watch
Liverpool
Curtis Jones represents Liverpool’s most experienced player likely to feature prominently.
The midfielder possesses the technical ability and game intelligence to control proceedings against lower-league opposition.
His creativity and passing range could unlock Barnsley’s defensive structure.
Alexis Mac Allister brings World Cup-winning pedigree to the midfield.
The Argentine international provides composure and quality that should prove decisive against League One defenders.
His ability to dictate tempo and create scoring opportunities makes him central to Liverpool’s attacking plans.
Federico Chiesa needs match sharpness after struggling for consistent playing time.
The Italian winger possesses pace and skill that could terrorize Barnsley’s full-backs.
This fixture offers Chiesa an ideal platform to build confidence and demonstrate his capabilities.
Barnsley
David McGoldrick brings vast experience to Barnsley’s attack.
The veteran forward has competed at Championship level throughout his career and understands what cup upsets require.
His hold-up play and link-up ability could provide crucial outlets for his teammates.
Adam Keillor-Dunn leads Barnsley’s attacking line and must capitalize on any scoring chances that arise.
The striker’s movement and finishing ability represent the visitors’ best hope of causing problems for Liverpool’s rotated defense.
Ben Mahoney faces a demanding evening in goal.
The goalkeeper’s shot-stopping ability and command of his penalty area will prove essential if Barnsley hope to keep the scoreline respectable.
Where to Watch Live?
The match receives extensive global broadcast coverage.
In the United Kingdom, TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate provide live television coverage, with streaming available through discovery+ and the discovery+ App.
Radio commentary features on TalkSport Radio UK and BBC Radio 5 Live.
International viewers can access the match through various broadcasters. United States audiences watch via ESPN Select, fuboTV, and the ESPN App.
Canadian fans tune into Sportsnet channels and Sportsnet Plus. Australian coverage comes through Stan Sport.
European nations receive coverage through DAZN in Germany, Austria, Italy, and Belgium, while Viaplay serves Scandinavian markets.
French viewers watch on beIN Sports 2, and Spanish-speaking audiences in Latin America access the match through Disney+ Premium.
Liverpool vs Barnsley Prediction
Liverpool possess overwhelming quality advantages despite their injury concerns and likely squad rotation.
The 57-place gap between the teams in English football’s pyramid reflects a significant talent disparity that should prove decisive.
Barnsley’s poor away form compounds their challenge. Two wins from 12 road trips demonstrates the visitors struggle outside their home environment.
Facing Premier League opposition at Anfield, even a rotated Liverpool side, represents a monumental task.
The hosts will seek to avoid repeating last season’s FA Cup embarrassment against Plymouth Argyle.
Slot understands the importance of progressing in cup competitions and will ensure his players approach this fixture with appropriate focus and intensity.
Final Score Prediction: Liverpool 4-0 Barnsley
Liverpool’s superior technical ability, home advantage, and motivation to avoid another cup upset should produce a comfortable victory.
The hosts will control possession, create numerous scoring opportunities, and ultimately progress to the fourth round with a convincing performance.
Read all Football Predictions.
FAQs
Where To Watch Liverpool vs Barnsley Live?
TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate broadcast the Liverpool vs Barnsley FA Cup match live in the United Kingdom, while international viewers can watch through ESPN Select in the USA, Stan Sport in Australia, Sportsnet in Canada, and DAZN across Germany, Austria, Italy, and Belgium.
Who Will Win Liverpool vs Barnsley Match?
Liverpool will win the match against Barnsley because the Premier League side sits 57 places higher in the English football pyramid, maintains a 10-game unbeaten run across all competitions, and possesses superior technical quality despite facing injury concerns and expected squad rotation.
What is Liverpool vs Barnsley Match Kick-Off Time?
The Liverpool vs Barnsley FA Cup third-round match kicks off at 20:00 GMT on Monday, January 13, 2026, at Anfield Stadium in Liverpool, England.
Are There Any Injuries in Liverpool vs Barnsley Match?
Liverpool miss six players through injuries including Alexander Isak, Conor Bradley, Giovanni Leoni, Hugo Ekitike, Stefan Bajcetic, and Wataru Endo, while Mohamed Salah remains absent due to Africa Cup of Nations duty, and Barnsley lose midfielder Luca Connell to a one-match suspension after his straight red card against Wigan Athletic.
What Is The Correct Score Prediction For Liverpool vs Barnsley Match?
Liverpool will defeat Barnsley 4-0 as the hosts hold overwhelming quality advantages at Anfield, Barnsley have won only two of their last 12 away fixtures, and Liverpool seek to avoid repeating last season’s FA Cup upset against Plymouth Argyle.
Barnsley Standing with Points?
Barnsley occupy 17th position in League One with 29 points from 21 matches, having secured eight wins, five draws, and eight defeats during the 2025-26 season, and the club holds games in hand over several teams positioned directly above them in the standings.
Liverpool Standing With Points?
Liverpool sit fourth in the Premier League standings after completing their fixtures in the 2025-26 season, with the Reds currently on a 10-game unbeaten run across all competitions despite drawing their last three consecutive matches against Arsenal, Fulham, and Leeds United.