Fulham and Liverpool recently played out a dramatic 2-2 draw at Craven Cottage on January 4, 2026, where a 97th-minute thunderbolt from Harrison Reed rescued a point for the hosts. This high-stakes encounter saw goals from Harry Wilson and Harrison Reed for Fulham, while Liverpool’s Florian Wirtz and Cody Gakpo found the net for the visitors. As of late January 2026, Liverpool currently sits in 4th place in the Premier League table with 34 points, while Fulham remains a resilient mid-table force in 11th position with 28 points. Fans are now looking ahead to the return fixture scheduled for April 11, 2026, at Anfield, which could prove pivotal for Liverpool’s Champions League qualification hopes and Fulham’s push for a top-half finish.
Recent History and Match Analysis
The January 2026 Thriller at Craven Cottage
The most recent meeting on January 4, 2026, epitomized the “chaos” that often defines this fixture. Fulham took an early lead through Harry Wilson, but Liverpool responded in the second half with an equalizer from marquee signing Florian Wirtz.
The game reached a fever pitch in stoppage time when Cody Gakpo appeared to have won it for the Reds in the 94th minute. However, Harrison Reed’s spectacular long-range strike in the 97th minute ensured the spoils were shared, extending Fulham’s unbeaten run at the time and highlighting Liverpool’s defensive vulnerabilities away from home.
Head-to-Head Record and Dominance
Historically, Liverpool has held the upper hand in this match-up, winning 46 of the 81 total meetings across all competitions. However, the gap has closed significantly under Marco Silva’s tenure at Fulham, with the Cottagers becoming a “bogey team” for the Merseyside giants.
- Total Meetings: 81
- Liverpool Wins: 46
- Fulham Wins: 14
- Draws: 21
In the last five Premier League meetings specifically, the results have been remarkably balanced, including a 3-2 victory for Fulham in April 2025 and two high-scoring draws (2-2). This suggests that while Liverpool has the superior squad depth, Fulham’s tactical organization at Craven Cottage often neutralizes the Reds’ attacking flair.
Tactical Battlegrounds: Slot vs. Silva
Arne Slot’s “Control” Philosophy
In the 2025/26 season, Arne Slot has transitioned Liverpool toward a more “controlled” style of play compared to the heavy metal football of the Klopp era. Liverpool prioritizes high possession and defensive solidity, often utilizing Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley to provide width while allowing Florian Wirtz to operate in the “half-spaces.”
However, as seen in the January 2026 draw, this control can break down against Fulham’s direct counter-attacks. When Liverpool commits bodies forward, they have occasionally been caught out by long balls over the top, a weakness that Marco Silva has expertly exploited.
Marco Silva’s Resilient Setup
Fulham typically deploys a compact 4-2-3-1 formation that relies on the defensive shielding of Sasa Lukic and Sander Berge. Their success against Liverpool often stems from their ability to win second balls in midfield and quickly transition to the wings.
- Key Outlets: Harry Wilson and Emile Smith Rowe are the creative engines, providing the service for Raul Jimenez or Hugo Ekitike (when available).
- Defensive Rocks: The partnership of Joachim Andersen and Jorge Cuenca has been vital in handling Liverpool’s multi-faceted attack.
Practical Information and Matchday Planning
Tickets for Fulham vs Liverpool
Securing tickets for this fixture is notoriously difficult due to the high demand and the relatively small capacity of Craven Cottage (approx. 28,500).
- Prices: Face value tickets for the April 11, 2026, match at Anfield range from £37 to £60, while hospitality packages can exceed £300.
- Secondary Market: Platforms like SeatPick show resale prices starting at approximately $188 (£148) for the Anfield clash.
- Buying Tips: Members should check the priority windows on the official club websites at least 6-8 weeks before kick-off.
How to Get to the Stadiums
- Craven Cottage (London): The nearest tube station is Putney Bridge (District Line), followed by a scenic 15-minute walk through Bishop’s Park.
- Anfield (Liverpool): From Liverpool Lime Street, fans can take the 917 express bus or the SoccerBus from Sandhills station.
Shared Legends and Historical Transfers
The Shared Player Pipeline
Fulham and Liverpool share a unique history of player exchanges that have benefited both clubs across different eras. As of early 2026, 26 players have famously donned both the white of Fulham and the red of Liverpool.
- Danny Murphy: A hero at both clubs, Murphy made 214 appearances for Liverpool, scoring iconic winners at Old Trafford, before captaining Fulham to the 2010 Europa League Final over 183 appearances.
- Steve Finnan: The reliable right-back achieved the rare feat of playing in all four professional English leagues with Fulham before winning the Champions League with Liverpool in 2005.
- Modern Successors: Recent years have seen younger talents like Harvey Elliott and Fabio Carvalho make the move to Anfield after developing in Fulham’s esteemed academy, while Harry Wilson found his permanent home at Craven Cottage in a £12 million move.
The Iconic Johnny Haynes Legacy
While many have moved between clubs, the most influential character in Fulham’s history remains Johnny Haynes. Known as “The Maestro,” Haynes played 657 games for Fulham and was the first player in England to earn £100 a week. His statue stands outside Craven Cottage today, serving as a reminder of the club’s deep roots, even as they compete with modern giants like Liverpool.
The 2026 Riverside Stand Experience
A New Era of Stadium Hospitality
The completed Riverside Stand has redefined the matchday experience for fans attending Fulham vs Liverpool in 2026. It is no longer just a seating area but a “complete hospitality ecosystem” overlooking the Thames.
- The Sky Deck: Spanning the top three floors, this feature includes a rooftop terrace with sweeping views of the London skyline, serving bowl foods and artisanal cocktails.
- Michelin-Star Dining: The Gourmet and The Brasserie restaurants feature menus curated by world-class chefs like Sally Abé and Ben Murphy, offering fine dining that rivals London’s top eateries.
- The Dugout: For those wanting an immersive tactical feel, this sports bar places fans directly behind the coaching staff of both teams, complete with pitchside access during warm-ups.
General Admission Upgrades
It isn’t just for VIPs; the Riverside Market has brought legendary London food stalls to the general admission concourses. Fans can enjoy Goila Butter Chicken or Base Face Pizza while being closer to the action than ever before, thanks to the stand’s steep, intimate design.
Tactical Evolution: Klopp vs. Slot
From Chaos to Control
The most significant change for Liverpool fans in 2026 is the departure from the “frenetic chaos” of the Klopp era. Arne Slot has implemented a system designed for longevity and structural dominance.
- Inverted Full-Backs: Players like Conor Bradley often drift into midfield to create numerical superiorities, allowing Liverpool to suffocate opponents with possession.
- Trigger-Based Pressing: Instead of pressing “all out,” Slot’s Liverpool waits for specific triggers—like a poor touch or a sideways pass—to conserve energy for the full 90 minutes.
Silva’s Tactical Flexibility
In the 2-2 draw on January 4, 2026, Marco Silva showcased his tactical growth by shifting Fulham into a 3-4-3 formation. By using wing-backs to stretch Liverpool’s narrow midfield, Fulham successfully bypassed the Reds’ press, proving that Silva is one of the most reactive and dangerous coaches in the Premier League today.
FAQs
Which player played the most games for both clubs?
John Arne Riise leads the way with 301 appearances for Liverpool and 89 for Fulham.
What is the “Sky Deck” at Craven Cottage?
The Sky Deck is a luxury rooftop space in the new Riverside Stand offering panoramic views of the River Thames and London.
Has Mohamed Salah’s role changed under Arne Slot?
Yes, in the 2025/26 season, Salah has taken on a more creative, wide-playmaking role, though he remains a primary goal threat.
What is the capacity of the new Riverside Stand?
The stand has significantly increased Craven Cottage’s capacity to approximately 28,500.
Who is the current manager of Fulham?
Marco Silva remains the manager, having led the club since 2021 and establishing them as a stable Premier League side.
Can you see the Thames from the seats?
Yes, the Riverside Stand is designed specifically to frame the river, with many hospitality areas featuring floor-to-ceiling windows.
Is Harvey Elliott still at Liverpool in 2026?
Yes, Elliott remains a key part of Liverpool’s midfield rotation and is a fan favorite due to his history with both clubs.
What is the “SoccerBus” in Liverpool?
It is a dedicated shuttle service for fans that runs between Sandhills station and Anfield on matchdays.
Do Fulham and Liverpool have a friendly rivalry?
While competitive, the rivalry is generally respectful and non-aggressive, often referred to as a “traditional” footballing encounter.
What is the best food to try at the Riverside Stand?
The Korean cuisine by Judy Joo at the Riverside Market is a standout favorite for fans in 2026.
Who won the last Fulham vs Liverpool match?
The last match on January 4, 2026, ended in a 2-2 draw at Craven Cottage.
When is the next Fulham vs Liverpool game?
The return fixture is scheduled for Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Anfield.
Where can I watch Fulham vs Liverpool on TV?
In the UK, the match is typically broadcast on Sky Sports Main Event or TNT Sports. In the US, it is available on Peacock or the USA Network.
What is the capacity of Craven Cottage?
Craven Cottage currently holds approximately 28,500 spectators following the redevelopment of the Riverside Stand.
Who are the top scorers in this fixture?
Historically, Mohamed Salah has been a frequent scorer for Liverpool, while Harry Wilson has often found the net against his former club.
Is there a “neutral zone” at Craven Cottage?
Yes, the Putney End often has a designated section for neutral fans, though for high-profile games like Liverpool, it is mostly occupied by home supporters.
Are Liverpool favorites for the April 2026 match?
Early betting odds place Liverpool as the favorites with a 52% win probability, given their strong home record at Anfield.
What time is kick-off for the next game?
The provisional kick-off for April 11 is 3:00 PM GMT, though this is subject to change for TV broadcasting.
How do I buy away tickets for Liverpool fans?
Away tickets are allocated via a ballot system for season ticket holders and members with a high number of loyalty points from previous away games.
Has Fulham ever won at Anfield?
Yes, Fulham’s most recent famous victory at Anfield was a 1-0 win in March 2021 during the behind-closed-doors season.
To read more , click here