Liverpool vs. Accrington Stanley | FA Cup | Pre Match

Liverpool vs. Accrington Stanley: FA Cup Third Round Preview

Liverpool begin their quest for FA Cup glory on Saturday lunchtime with a third-round clash against League Two underdogs Accrington Stanley. This David-versus-Goliath matchup offers a dream scenario for the fourth-tier side, as they make their first trip to Anfield since the club’s reformation in 1968.

For Liverpool, this marks the beginning of another campaign in a tournament they have won eight times. However, their history in recent years has been less prolific, with only one FA Cup victory in nearly two decades. That triumph came in 2022, but the Reds endured heartbreak in last year’s competition, bowing out to Manchester United in an electrifying 4-3 extra-time quarter-final defeat. This season, under the guidance of Arne Slot, Liverpool aim to improve their track record and secure another piece of silverware.

Liverpool’s Recent Form and Challenges

The Reds come into the fixture following a 2-2 Premier League draw with arch-rivals Manchester United at Anfield last weekend. While the result preserved their six-point lead at the top of the table, it was a missed opportunity to extend their advantage further. The disappointment was compounded by a midweek setback in the EFL Cup semi-final, where Liverpool suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat away to Tottenham Hotspur. That loss not only ended their 24-game unbeaten streak but also marked only the second defeat of Slot’s tenure, with the first coming against Nottingham Forest earlier in the season.

Despite the recent stumble, Liverpool remain formidable at this stage of the FA Cup. They have been eliminated in the third round only once in the past 13 seasons, and that solitary loss came on the road against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Anfield has long been a fortress for the Reds, and their history against lower-division opposition in the FA Cup suggests a routine win is on the cards. However, with a busy schedule that includes a Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest immediately after this game, Slot is expected to rotate his squad heavily.

Accrington Stanley’s Dream Tie

Accrington Stanley, a club steeped in history but largely known for their underdog status, approach this fixture as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The modern iteration of the club has never faced Liverpool, although the original Accrington Stanley did meet the Reds in the FA Cup back in 1956, losing 2-0. For manager John Doolan—a Liverpool native and former youth coach at both Liverpool and Everton—this match is more than just a professional milestone; it is a personal journey to a ground he knows intimately.

Remarkably, Accrington have never lost a third-round tie in their current form, progressing to the fourth round on all four previous occasions. However, their encounters with Premier League sides have not been as kind. In their three fourth-round appearances against top-flight opposition, they suffered defeats to Fulham in 2010, Middlesbrough in 2017, and Leeds United in 2023.

This season, the Shrimps have already surpassed their disappointing FA Cup campaign from last year, which ended in the first round against Doncaster Rovers. After navigating past non-league Rushall Olympic and edging Swindon Town on penalties, Accrington enter this clash in good form. Wins over Grimsby Town and Colchester United in their first two matches of 2025 have lifted them five points clear of the League Two relegation zone, easing some of the pressure on Doolan’s squad.

Team News and Selection

Arne Slot is expected to make sweeping changes to his Liverpool lineup, giving opportunities to young and fringe players. Youth prospects James McConnell, Tyler Morton, Trey Nyoni, and Jayden Danns are all likely to feature, having impressed during Liverpool’s EFL Cup campaign. Among the senior players, Darwin Núñez, Harvey Elliott, Federico Chiesa, and goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher—none of whom started in the midweek clash against Tottenham—could also be involved.

Injuries remain a concern for Liverpool, with Joe Gomez sidelined due to a hamstring issue and Jarell Quansah also out after picking up an injury in the Spurs match. However, the Reds’ depth should be more than sufficient to handle the challenge posed by their League Two opponents.

Accrington Stanley will be without Jay Rich-Baghuelou and Seb Quirk for their trip to Merseyside, while Jake Batty and Dara Costelloe are doubtful. The visitors will rely heavily on goalkeeper Billy Crellin, who is set for a busy afternoon against Liverpool’s attacking firepower. Crellin, on loan from Everton, will be keen to impress against his parent club’s rivals and perhaps inspire one of the greatest FA Cup shocks in history.

Accrington’s Tyler Walton has been the standout performer in their cup run so far, scoring in both previous rounds. Should he find the net again, Walton would become the first Accrington player to score in each of the first three rounds of the FA Cup in the same season.

Key Battles and Tactical Dynamics

Liverpool will dominate possession and look to break down a resolute Accrington defense. The likes of Núñez and Elliott could prove pivotal, with their movement and creativity capable of unlocking even the most disciplined backline. Youngsters like Nyoni and Danns may also relish the chance to shine on the big stage, adding energy and unpredictability to Liverpool’s attack.

For Accrington, the game plan will revolve around defensive organization and counterattacking when opportunities arise. Doolan’s men will aim to frustrate Liverpool and exploit set pieces or transitional moments. Tyler Walton’s form in front of goal, coupled with Crellin’s shot-stopping ability, will be crucial if they are to keep the scoreline respectable or even dream of an upset.

A Fixture Steeped in Contrasts

This third-round tie encapsulates the beauty of the FA Cup—a competition where football’s giants meet its minnows. For Liverpool, it is an opportunity to bounce back from recent setbacks, give valuable minutes to their younger players, and advance in a tournament they aspire to win. For Accrington Stanley, it is a moment of history and a chance to measure themselves against one of the world’s biggest clubs.

While a Liverpool victory seems inevitable given the disparity in quality and resources, the romance of the FA Cup lies in its unpredictability. Anfield will witness a clash not just of teams but of ambitions, where Liverpool seek to rekindle their dominance and Accrington aim to leave their mark on one of football’s grandest stages. Whether it ends in a routine win for the Reds or a heroic underdog story, this match promises to showcase the enduring magic of the FA Cup.