Liverpool vs Chelsea Prediction (EFL Cup) Odds and Bets 28.10.2026

Liverpool have responded impressively to their 3-0 defeat against Manchester City, winning four consecutive matches across domestic and European competitions. The Reds beat LASK 6-3, Brentford 2-1 and Villarreal 4-3 before securing a more controlled 2-0 victory over Brighton on Sunday.

Alexander Isak scored against Brighton, while a Pascal Groß own goal helped Liverpool collect another three points. Iraola’s side have scored 14 goals across their last five matches, although they’ve also conceded ten. Their attacking quality is obvious, but defensive lapses remain a concern.

Florian Wirtz is doubtful after suffering an ankle injury against Brighton, while Dominik Szoboszlai, Jeremie Frimpong and Victor Muñoz are also dealing with fitness problems. With Arsenal visiting Anfield on Sunday, squad rotation could influence Liverpool’s approach to this cup tie.

Chelsea arrive after a frustrating 2-0 defeat against Tottenham, which ended their run of consecutive Premier League victories. Xabi Alonso’s side had previously beaten Bournemouth 5-1 and Everton 2-0, showing their ability to produce convincing attacking performances. However, Cole Palmer’s dismissal against Spurs means he is suspended for Wednesday’s fixture. João Pedro is also unavailable through injury.

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez remains sidelined with a fractured jaw, leaving Mike Penders in contention to continue between the posts. Chelsea have scored nine goals across their last five matches, although they’ve also failed to find the net twice. The Blues have enough quality to trouble Liverpool, but losing Palmer and João Pedro removes two important attacking options.

1. Liverpool’s Attacking Form: The Reds have scored 14 goals in their last five matches, finding the net at least twice in four consecutive victories.
2. Defensive Vulnerabilities: Liverpool have conceded ten goals across those five fixtures, while Chelsea have allowed eight. Neither defence has been consistently reliable.
3. Chelsea’s Missing Players: Palmer’s suspension and João Pedro’s injury could affect Chelsea’s creativity, although Alonso still has attacking options available.
4. Fixture Congestion: Both managers must consider upcoming Premier League matches. Liverpool face Arsenal on Sunday, while Chelsea host Manchester United on Saturday.
5. Goals Market Appeal: Liverpool have seen over 2.5 goals in four of their last five matches, compared with three of Chelsea’s five. Over 2.5 goals at 1/2 is my preferred selection.

Chelsea are narrow favourites at 5/4 despite playing away from home, while Liverpool are priced at 17/10. However, the match-result market looks difficult to call. Liverpool have the stronger recent form, but Chelsea have enough quality to cause problems at Anfield.

Over 2.5 goals at 1/2 is my preferred selection, supported by the attacking records of both teams. For a bigger return, over 3.5 goals at 13/10 looks interesting, particularly given Liverpool’s recent high-scoring European fixtures. All markets apply to 90 minutes plus stoppage time. Prices may change before kick-off.