After a delay of 66 days due to Storm Darragh, Everton vs Liverpool will finally lock horns in a highly anticipated Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on Wednesday night.
Originally scheduled for December 7, 2024, this fixture now takes on added significance as it marks the final meeting between these two historic rivals at Goodison Park before Everton’s planned move to their new stadium.
With both teams coming off disappointing FA Cup exits, the stage is set for a fiercely contested battle under the lights, where emotions will run high and local bragging rights are at stake.
Match Preview: Everton vs Liverpool
This derby carries immense weight for both clubs. For Everton, it’s a chance to bid farewell to Goodison Park in style, a venue that has witnessed countless memorable nights over its storied history. Under the guidance of returning manager David Moyes, the Toffees have found form at a crucial time, securing three consecutive Premier League wins to move nine points clear of the relegation zone.
Victories over Tottenham, Brighton, and Leicester have showcased their attacking prowess, with Everton scoring eight goals across those games. However, their recent 2-0 FA Cup defeat to Bournemouth served as a reminder of their inconsistencies.
Liverpool, on the other hand, arrive with their own motivations. Despite a humbling 1-0 FA Cup loss to Plymouth Argyle, the Reds remain unbeaten in the Premier League this season and sit comfortably at the top of the table.
A win here would extend their lead over Arsenal to nine points, further solidifying their title credentials. However, their record at Goodison Park has been far from stellar in recent years, with just two wins in their last 12 visits.
This clash is not just about local pride; it’s about history. Liverpool are chasing their 100th league win over Everton, a milestone only achieved four times in English football history. For Everton, a victory would see them secure back-to-back derby wins for the first time in 40 years, a feat that would further cement Moyes’ legacy in his second stint at the club.
Team News
David Moyes is expected to field a strong lineup, with Vitalii Mykolenko likely to return from a calf strain, replacing Ashley Young at left-back. Jack Harrison could also start on the right flank after an impressive cameo off the bench against Bournemouth.
Up front, Beto will lead the line in the absence of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Armando Broja, and Youssef Chermiti. Dwight McNeil remains sidelined following knee surgery.
Arne Slot is set to make sweeping changes from the side that lost to Plymouth, reverting to the XI that thrashed Tottenham 4-0 in the EFL Cup semi-final. Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Virgil van Dijk are all expected to return after being rested at the weekend.
Trent Alexander-Arnold could return for Liverpool after training following a two-game injury absence, providing a boost for the Merseyside derby against Everton. However, Joe Gomez is ruled out after getting injured in the FA Cup loss to Plymouth, and Tyler Morton will miss weeks with a shoulder issue.
While Alexander-Arnold’s potential comeback is a positive, Liverpool must address defensive and midfield gaps to maintain their strong Premier League form in this crucial clash at Goodison Park.
Everton vs Liverpool: Key Stats
- Head-to-Head: Liverpool have dominated this fixture since 2000, winning 36 of the 54 meetings, compared to Everton’s six victories.
- Goodison Record: The teams have an almost even split at Goodison Park, with 41 wins apiece and 37 draws.
- Red Cards: This fixture has seen more red cards (23) than any other in Premier League history.
- Liverpool’s Form: The Reds are unbeaten in their last 19 Premier League games (14 wins, 5 draws).
- Everton’s Resurgence: The Toffees have won three consecutive league games for the first time this season, scoring eight goals in the process.
- Milestones: Mohamed Salah has been directly involved in 21 goals in Liverpool’s 12 away league games this season (13 goals, 8 assists), matching Andrew Cole’s record from 1993-94.
- Clean Sheets: Everton have kept nine clean sheets this season, the third-highest in the league, while Liverpool’s Alisson Becker has seven shutouts in 10 appearances against the Toffees.
As the lights shine down on Goodison Park for one last Merseyside derby, expect a night filled with passion, drama, and unforgettable moments.
