The two betting markets to target in the Monday’s “Alexander Isak Derby”

Isak is unlikely to feature, but the ongoing drama over his future has added extra spice. Both sides are also expected to score. 

Odds courtesy of 1xBet. Correct at time of publishing and subject to change.

Liverpool will be one for the neutrals

We predicted goals for Liverpool last month, highlighting their season opener against Crystal Palace. We expected over 3.5 goals in the match and backed the Reds to score over 2.5 themselves. We also suggested Mo Salah could challenge for the Golden Boot again this season. 

Well, the game had six goals in the end, Arne Slot’s side scored four, and Salah got off the mark on Matchday 1. With Liverpool’s attacking firepower and defensive uncertainties, we could see plenty more high-scoring games this season. They’ll be fun to watch, that’s for sure.

Next up is Newcastle United, and the timing couldn’t be more dramatic. They face off after Alexander Isak has publicly stated his desire to leave, and after a summer of links to Anfield. The Swede almost certainly won’t play a part in the fixture, but his situation adds a fascinating element to the tie.

We expect plenty of goals in this one. With the Isak storyline in play, it might be worth looking at the cards market, too. Things might get fiery at St. James’ Park.

This tie will captivate neutrals just as much as the supporters of both teams. 

Goals at both ends - and sparks to fly 

If - and likely when - Isak leaves the Magpies, there’s no doubt that he’ll be missed on the goals front. He scored 23 of their goals last season, after all. However, Eddie Howe’s side found the net 45 times without the Swede, and they retain plenty of attacking threat. 

They may not have scored against Aston Villa on opening day, but with 16 shots at Villa Park, they really should have. There’s no doubt they’ll need a striker if Isak moves on. However, with the likes of Anthony Elanga, Anthony Gordon and Harry Barnes in their arsenal, they can cause a shaky Reds’ defence problems.

In general, Liverpool could be good value this season when it comes to both teams scoring, but they’ll still win plenty. Just like the Bournemouth clash, their trip to Newcastle could result in goals at both ends, yet the three points should still go their way. Hugo Ekitike already getting a couple of goals could hint at what’s ahead. 

The two teams met three times last season, and there were 11 goals scored - that’s an average of 3.6 per game.

Off the scoresheet, expect sparks to fly in the North East. There were also 11 yellow cards shown in their three meetings last season, and that’s without the added Isak drama. The tension will rise even further, and with passionate fans in full voice, this promises to be a fiery affair.