This will be the final Premier League meeting between the two sides at the historic venue, a place that has been Everton’s home for over 130 years. As the Toffees prepare to move to a new stadium on Bramley-Moore Dock next season, this match promises to be a memorable one, with both sets of supporters aiming to create an atmosphere to match the occasion.
Everton: A Glimmer of Hope
Everton have shown glimpses of potential this season, but consistency remains their biggest challenge. They have not won back to back games since April and with just 15 points from their opening 14 matches, Everton are very much in the relegation battle.
However, their 4-0 demolition of Wolverhampton Wanderers in midweek has provided Everton’s supporters with a much-needed boost, snapped a frustrating five-game winless streak. This win also extended their unbeaten run at home to five matches and with the Goodison faithful in full voice for the stadium's final Merseyside Derby, Everton will be hoping to keep the streak going.
Liverpool: The Title Contenders
Liverpool’s form this season has been exemplary, with Arne Slot’s side occupying the top spot in the Premier League. However, their recent 3-3 draw with Newcastle United in midweek saw their seven-point lead at the top trimmed by Arsenal and Chelsea. The Reds continue to look like serious title contenders, but with a congested fixture list ahead, they can ill afford any further slip-ups.
However, while Liverpool's attacking prowess remains potent, their defense has shown cracks in recent away games. The Reds have conceded 2 or more goals in their last four away fixtures, a worrying trend that Sean Dyche will hope to exploit.
The Stats: A Tale of Two Teams
The contrasting styles of both teams are reflected in the statistics this season. Everton have struggled in possession, with the lowest average possession in the league at 40.6%, while Liverpool enjoy much more control, with 56.9% possession, ranking third in the league. The difference in passing quality is also evident, as Everton rank 19th in accurate passes per game (279.6), while Liverpool are second (458.4).
Everton’s struggles in front of goal have been evident this season, with only 14 goals scored. Their ranking of 18th in the league for Expected Goals (15.0) and dead last for big chances created (24) highlights their lack of creativity and cutting edge in attack. In stark contrast, Liverpool have had no such issues, producing a league-high 57 big chances, scoring 29 goals, almost perfectly matching their Expected Goals (xG) of 29.2. The Reds have been especially prolific away from home, netting 16 goals in just 7 away matches.
Defensively, Everton have managed five clean sheets this season despite conceding 21 goals in total On the other hand, Liverpool have boasted the league's best defensive record, with just 11 goals conceded and seven clean sheets to their name However as mentioned Liverpool have conceded more goals on the road in recent weeks, a worrying trend they will be keen to address.
Key Players
Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s season has been disappointing so far, with just 2 goals scored despite having an Expected Goals (xG) of 4.38, underlining his struggles to convert chances. He has, however, scored in his last two Merseyside derbies at Goodison and Everton will be hoping he adds to that tally.
On the other side, Liverpool's Mohamed Salah stands out as the obvious danger man. He has been in outstanding form, finding the net in his last seven Premier League matches. Currently, he is the league's top scorer with 13 goals, surpassing his Expected Goals (xG) of 10.5. In addition to his goal-scoring prowess, Salah has also contributed 8 assists, demonstrating his all-round game.
Head-to-Head: Liverpool’s Dominance
Historically, Liverpool have had the upper hand in this fixture. Out of the 245 Merseyside Derby encounters, Liverpool have won 125 times, while Everton have claimed 84 victories. In the last 30 meetings, Everton have managed just two wins, with 13 draws and 15 Liverpool wins. The Toffees’ home record against their rivals at Goodison offers more hope with three defeats in the last 14 meetings, with nine draws and two wins.
Everton’s Injuries and Liverpool’s Concerns
Everton will be without several key players for the derby, including Iroegbunam, Garner, and Chermiti, all sidelined due to injury. Liverpool, meanwhile, will be missing several players, including Konaté, Tsimikas, and Bradley, who are all injured, Alisson, Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa are doubtful while Alexis Mac Allister will be suspended after picking up a fifth yellow card of the season.
A Memorable Farewell to Goodison Park
As the final Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park approaches, emotions will be running high. Everton will look to send their iconic home ground out in style, while Liverpool will aim to maintain their grip on the Premier League title. With both teams under pressure and the stakes as high as ever, this promises to be another unforgettable chapter in one of football’s greatest rivalries.
