Liverpool’s Pre-Season US Tour: How to Watch and What to Expect
Liverpool is set to face Real Betis in the United States later today as part of their pre-season preparations. This exciting match will take place at the home of the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers, offering fans a unique opportunity to see their favorite team in action before the new Premier League season kicks off. Here’s everything you need to know about how to watch the game, where to catch the highlights, and early team news.
Introduction
Liverpool’s pre-season tour is always an eagerly anticipated event, and this year is no different. The Reds will be playing a series of matches across the United States, starting with a clash against La Liga side Real Betis. This match is particularly noteworthy as it marks Liverpool’s return to American soil for the first time in five years. With the Premier League season just around the corner, these pre-season games are crucial for the team’s preparations.
The venue for this highly anticipated match is Acrisure Stadium, more commonly known as Heinz Field, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This stadium is not just a football ground; it is the home of the storied NFL franchise, the Pittsburgh Steelers. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, offering fans a glimpse of what to expect in the upcoming season.
Match Details: Kick-Off Time and Venue
Kick-Off Times
The match will kick off at 12:30 AM for UK viewers, which translates to 7:30 PM Eastern Time for those in Pittsburgh. For fans on the west coast of the United States, the game will start at 4:30 PM Pacific Time. This scheduling provides a rare opportunity for American fans to watch a Liverpool game at a more convenient time, compared to the usual early morning kick-offs.
- UK Time: 12:30 AM
- Eastern Time: 7:30 PM
- Pacific Time: 4:30 PM
Venue: Acrisure Stadium
Acrisure Stadium, with a seating capacity of 68,400, is set to host this exciting encounter. Known for its rich history and association with the Pittsburgh Steelers, the stadium provides a perfect backdrop for this pre-season fixture. The Steelers are currently in their training camp, preparing for the upcoming NFL season, which adds another layer of excitement to the venue.
How to Watch the Game: TV and Streaming Options
LFCTV and LFCTV GO
Fans eager to watch Liverpool take on Real Betis can do so via LFCTV, Liverpool’s in-house media service. Subscribers to LFCTV will have access to live coverage of the match on TV. Additionally, the game will be available on LFCTV GO, the club’s online streaming service. New subscribers can take advantage of a free month’s trial, making it easier than ever to catch all the action.
- LFCTV: Available for subscribers
- LFCTV GO: Free month’s trial for new subscribers
Social Media and Highlights
Liverpool.com will provide real-time updates and analysis of the game. Fans can also follow the action on Liverpool’s social media channels, including Twitter and Facebook. Post-match press conferences will be available on the Blood Red YouTube channel. Highlights and key moments from the game will be shared on LFCTV GO and other official club channels.
Team News and Expected Line-Ups
Liverpool’s Squad
Liverpool will be without several key players for their opening US pre-season tour match against Real Betis. These absences are due to their involvement in summer international tournaments. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson, Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, Joe Gomez, Alexis Mac Allister, Darwin Nunez, and Virgil van Dijk will all miss the US tour. Manager Arne Slot has indicated that these players are expected to join the team after their return to Liverpool.
- Unavailable Players: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson, Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, Joe Gomez, Alexis Mac Allister, Darwin Nunez, Virgil van Dijk
- Andy Robertson: Travelling with the team but expected to miss games due to a minor injury
- Diogo Jota, Ibrahima Konate, Ryan Gravenberch: Joining the team in the US but not involved against Real Betis
Real Betis: A Familiar Face
Liverpool fans may see a familiar face in the form of ex-Reds goalkeeper Adrian, who recently signed a two-year deal with Real Betis. The Spanish side has consistently performed well in La Liga, finishing in the top seven in the last four seasons. They are expected to provide a stern test for Liverpool, making this an exciting match-up.
Analysis and Expectations
Liverpool’s Preparations
Liverpool is coming off a behind-closed-doors defeat to Preston at the AXA Training Centre. New manager Arne Slot will be looking to see a marked improvement in performance as the team faces Real Betis. This match offers fans the first public glimpse of the new era under Slot, and it will be watched with keen interest.
- Previous Match: Behind-closed-doors defeat to Preston
- Manager: Arne Slot
Real Betis: A Strong Opponent
Real Betis has been a formidable team in La Liga, consistently finishing in the top seven. Their recent signing of Adrian adds experience to their squad. This match will be a good test for Liverpool, providing valuable insights into the team’s readiness for the upcoming Premier League season.
- Recent Performance: Consistent top-seven finishes in La Liga
- Key Signing: Adrian, ex-Liverpool goalkeeper
FAQs
What time does the Liverpool vs. Real Betis match start?
The match kicks off at 12:30 AM UK time, 7:30 PM Eastern Time, and 4:30 PM Pacific Time.
Where can I watch the Liverpool vs. Real Betis match?
The match will be available on LFCTV and LFCTV GO. Subscribers can watch live coverage on TV, while new subscribers can take advantage of a free month’s trial on LFCTV GO.
Who will be missing from Liverpool’s squad?
Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson, Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, Joe Gomez, Alexis Mac Allister, Darwin Nunez, and Virgil van Dijk will all be absent due to their involvement in summer international tournaments.
Will Andy Robertson play in the pre-season tour?
Although Andy Robertson has travelled with the team, he is expected to miss the pre-season games due to a minor injury sustained during Euro 2024.
How can I follow the match updates?
You can follow real-time updates and analysis on Liverpool.com. Additionally, updates will be available on Liverpool’s social media channels, including Twitter and Facebook.
Conclusion
Liverpool’s pre-season tour in the United States promises to be an exciting series of matches, starting with a clash against Real Betis. With several key players missing, it will be interesting to see how the team performs under new manager Arne Slot. Fans can catch all the action on LFCTV and LFCTV GO, with real-time updates available on Liverpool.com and the club’s social media channels. This match offers a unique opportunity to see the Reds in action ahead of the new Premier League season, making it a must-watch for all Liverpool supporters.
