Kick-off: Saturday, 7th December 2024, at 12:30 GMT

Goodison Park will host the Merseyside Derby as Everton take on Liverpool in a crucial Premier League clash. Everton, struggling near the relegation zone, aim to secure vital points, while Liverpool, sitting comfortably at the top of the table, look to continue their dominant run.

Form Analysis: Everton

Everton are currently 15th in the Premier League table, with 14 points from 14 matches. Their record of three wins, five draws, and six losses reflects their inconsistent performances this season. They have scored 14 goals and conceded 21, with their defence proving to be a weak link.

In their last five matches, Everton have struggled to maintain form, with only one win. Their recent 1-1 draw against Bournemouth highlighted their lack of cutting edge in attack. Dominic Calvert-Lewin is their most reliable striker, with two goals this season, while Dwight McNeil has provided creativity from the wings, contributing three goals and three assists. Defensively, James Tarkowski and Ashley Young have been key, but the team has struggled to contain stronger opposition.

Form Analysis: Liverpool

a red bird with wings and text

Liverpool are enjoying a stellar season, leading the Premier League table with 35 points from 14 matches. Their record includes 11 wins, two draws, and just one loss, scoring 29 goals and conceding 11. They are unbeaten in their last five league matches, underlining their dominance this season.

Mohamed Salah is in sensational form, leading the league with 13 goals and eight assists. His partnership with Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez has been devastating for opposing defences. At the back, Virgil van Dijk has marshalled the defence expertly, and Alisson has been in excellent form, ensuring Liverpool remain tough to break down.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Liverpool have dominated recent encounters with Everton, winning four of their last five Premier League meetings. Their most recent clash in February 2024 ended in a 2-0 victory for Liverpool at Anfield, with goals from Salah and Díaz. Everton’s last win against Liverpool came in 2021, highlighting the challenge they face in this fixture.

Tactical Analysis

Everton are expected to set up in a 4-5-1 formation, prioritising defensive solidity and counter-attacks. Sean Dyche will rely on Dwight McNeil and Iliman Ndiaye to provide width and creativity, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin will be the focal point of their attack.

Liverpool, under Arne Slot, will adopt their usual 4-3-3 formation, focusing on high pressing and quick transitions. Mohamed Salah will lead the attack, supported by Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s overlapping runs and pinpoint deliveries will provide an additional threat from wide areas, while Szoboszlai and Mac Allister will look to dominate the midfield battle.

Predicted Lineups

  • Everton (4-5-1): Jordan Pickford – Ashley Young, James Tarkowski, Jarrad Branthwaite, Vitaliy Mykolenko – Dwight McNeil, Idrissa Gueye, Abdoulaye Doucouré, James Garner, Iliman Ndiaye – Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
  • Liverpool (4-3-3): Alisson – Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Andrew Robertson – Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Curtis Jones – Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez, Luis Díaz.

Betting Options and Odds

  1. Liverpool to Win (Odds: 1.70): Liverpool’s form and quality make them strong favourites for this match.
  2. Both Teams to Score – No (Odds: 1.80): Given Everton’s attacking struggles, Liverpool could keep a clean sheet.
  3. Over 2.5 Goals (Odds: 1.85): Liverpool’s attacking firepower makes a high-scoring game likely.

Betting Tip & Prediction: Everton – Liverpool (07.12.2024)

Liverpool’s form and attacking depth give them a significant edge in this fixture. Everton may show some resilience at home, but the quality of Salah and Liverpool’s front three should prove too much for the Toffees.

Prediction: Liverpool to Win & Over 2.5 Goals (Odds: 1.85), with a likely scoreline of 3-0 in favour of Liverpool.