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Everton will host Liverpool at Goodison Park in the second Merseyside Derby of the 2023/24 PL season. This game is crucial for both teams. Everton, currently 16th on the table, are just 5 points away from the relegation zone but are coming off a significant 2-0 win at home against Nottingham.
On the other side, Liverpool are in a strong second position, tied in points with Arsenal at the top of the league, following their 3-1 away win against Fulham.Β
Looking at recent history between these two teams, Liverpool have had the upper hand, winning 4 of the last 5 matches against Everton, including one win at Goodison Park, and drawing once. In terms of their last 5 Premier League games, Everton have won 2, lost 2, and drawn 1.
Liverpool have won 3, drawn 1, and lost 1. This upcoming match is more than just a game, it's a significant clash that could impact both teams' standings as the season reaches its closure.
LFC typically ramps up their offensive pressure as the game progresses. They average 0.82 goals in the final 15 minutes of the game.
The betting tip is...
Liverpool will score 1.5+ goals in second half
70 %
30 %
The hosts will have to cope without Seamus Coleman, who is recovering from a groin injury. Key players include Doucoure, who leads the team with 6 goals and 2 assists, while McNeil has contributed 3 goals and 5 assists. Calvert-Lewin also remains a crucial figure upfront, having scored 5 goals and provided 1 assist.
Despite Everton's challenges in finding the back of the net, averaging just 1.03 goals per game, they have shown strength in defence. They are ranked fourth in the Premier League for fewest goals conceded, averaging 1.5 goals per match, and have scored 5 goals in their last 5 matches.
Garner and Mykolenko have been pivotal in defence, with high tackle counts that contribute to Everton having the second-most tackles in the league this season. Meanwhile, Jordan Pickford has secured 10 clean sheets, trailing only behind Raya, who has 13.
Calvert-Lewin to start over Beto in search of goals.
Predicted Lineup: Jordan Pickford, Ashley Young, James Tarkowski, Jarrad Branthwaite, Vitali Mykolenko, Jack Harrison, Gueye, Andre Gomes, Dwight McNeil, Abdoulaye Doucoure, Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
LFC will be boosted by the recent return of Diogo Jota, enhancing their attacking options alongside Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah, the team's top scorer with 17 goals and 9 assists. Salah is confirmed to start, but Darwin NΓΊΓ±ez remains a doubt due to his conversion issues.
Despite the potency of Liverpool's attack, they might face challenges breaking through Everton's robust defence. LFC have scored an average of 2.27 goals per game and created 2.67 chances per game this season.
On the defensive front, Liverpool has shown some vulnerabilities recently, but with Robertson, Alexander-Arnold, and van Dijk all fit and ready to play, the team is well-positioned to aim for a clean sheet. Their presence is critical as Liverpool seeks to maintain pressure at the top of the table and contain Everton's tactical plays.
Salah and Mac Allister to start after coming off the bench in the last match.
Predicted Lineup: Alisson Becker, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson, Diogo Jota, Wataru Endo, Alexis Mac Allister, Cody Gakpo, Mohammed Salah, Luis Diaz.
Given the historical data and current form, the upcoming Merseyside derby leans heavily in favour of Liverpool. Everton are struggling at home with a record of no wins in their last 12 Premier League games against Liverpool, and are up against a team that has been largely dominant in this fixture.
Liverpool have lost only once in their last 26 league encounters with Everton, with 4 wins and 4 clean sheets in their last 5 matches against them.
Despite Evertonβs recent defensive solidity, Liverpoolβs attacking trio, bolstered by their full front lineβs return, is likely to find the net. Expect Liverpool to continue their strong form, likely securing a win with a clean sheet.
