Liverpool hosts Burnley at Anfield in a match that, on the surface, looks like a classic top-versus-bottom Premier League clash. The game, kicking off on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 3:00 PM GMT (10:00 AM ET), pits a high-flying Liverpool side against a struggling Burnley team, which is desperate for survival. While history and current form heavily favour the home side, anything can happen in the world’s toughest league. This encounter is more than just three points; it is about momentum for one and survival for the other.

A History of Red Supremacy

The rivalry between Liverpool and Burnley is one of England’s oldest fixtures, dating back to 1894. Over 130 meetings, Liverpool have clearly had the upper hand, securing 62 victories to Burnley’s 38. Moreover, recent history tells an even more one-sided story. In the last six encounters, Liverpool has won every single match. Remarkably, they have also kept a clean sheet in five of those six games, demonstrating a defensive stranglehold over the Clarets. The last time these two met, in September 2025, it took a 95th-minute Mohamed Salah penalty to secure a 1-0 win, proving Burnley can still be a tough nut to crack.

A Tale of Two Seasons

The current Premier League table paints a vivid picture of two clubs on vastly different journeys this season.

Liverpool’s Unbeaten but Frustrating Run

Liverpool currently sits 4th in the league and is enjoying a fantastic unbeaten streak of 11 matches across all competitions. However, their league form has seen some recent frustration. Their last three Premier League games have all ended in draws, stalling their momentum slightly. Consequently, they will be eager to turn these draws into a decisive victory at Anfield. A recent 4-1 FA Cup win over Barnsley shows their goalscoring touch is still very much alive.

Burnley’s Fight for Survival

In stark contrast, Burnley find themselves in 19th place, eight points from safety. Their form is a major concern, as they are now winless in their last 12 Premier League games. This run has seen them pick up very few points, leaving them in a precarious position. Despite these league struggles, they recently thrashed Millwall 5-1 in the FA Cup. This result proves they still pose a threat and will be desperate to carry that scoring form into their league campaign.

Stars Set to Shine at Anfield

Both teams have key individuals who could decide the outcome of this crucial match. Their performances will undoubtedly be under the microscope.

For Liverpool, the attacking threats are numerous.

• Cody Gakpo and Hugo Ekitike: Both forwards are in fine form, leading the club’s scoring charts with 12 goals each.
• Dominik Szoboszlai and Mohamed Salah: This dynamic pair has both contributed 7 goals, offering a significant threat from midfield and the wing.

• Jaidon Anthony and Zian Flemming: They are Burnley’s top scorers this season with 6 goals apiece. If the Clarets are to find a way through Liverpool’s defence, these two will likely be at the heart of the action.

Conclusion: Will Form or Desperation Prevail?

On paper, this match at Anfield appears to be a straightforward affair. Liverpool’s dominant history, superior squad, and strong current form make them the clear favourites. Burnley’s poor league run and position in the relegation zone suggest a difficult afternoon ahead. However, football is never that simple. Liverpool’s recent string of draws shows they are not invincible, while Burnley’s cup success offers a glimmer of hope. The Clarets’ desperation for points could fuel a surprisingly resilient performance. Ultimately, the question is whether Liverpool’s class will prevail or if Burnley’s fight for survival can cause a major Premier League upset.