Date: February 14, 2025
Kick-off Time: 7:30 PM GMT
Venue: Goodison Park
Match Overview:
The 245th Merseyside Derby will be a historic one, as Everton and Liverpool face off in the final edition of this fierce rivalry at Goodison Park. With Everton set to move to Bramley-Moore Dock next season. It marks the end of an era at a ground that has seen countless dramatic encounters between these two fierce rivals.
David Moyes’ return to the Everton dugout has revitalized the Toffees, with three consecutive league wins pushing them further from the relegation zone. However, a disappointing FA Cup exit to Bournemouth has served as a reminder that they remain a work in progress.
For Liverpool, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Arne Slot’s men are chasing their first Premier League title since 2020 and come into this game six points clear at the top, with this being their long-awaited game in hand. However, a shock FA Cup defeat to Plymouth last weekend has dented their momentum and a trip to Goodison is rarely straightforward, with Liverpool winning just twice in their last 12 visits.
Recent Form:
Everton:
Moyes’ impact has been immediate, guiding Everton to three straight league victories over Tottenham, Brighton and Leicester. The Toffees have rediscovered their defensive resilience, keeping clean sheets in their last two league outings. Their recent home form in this fixture also provides confidence, having avoided defeat in the past two Merseyside derbies at Goodison (W1, D1).
Liverpool:
Despite their FA Cup disappointment, Liverpool remain in dominant form in the league, boasting a 19-match unbeaten run (W14, D5). They dismantled Tottenham 4-0 in the EFL Cup semi-final second leg last week, showcasing their attacking firepower. However, Goodison has not been a happy hunting ground and with just two wins in 12 competitive visits (D9, L1), they’ll need to be at their best to secure a crucial three points.
Head-to-Head Record:
- All-Time Meetings: 244
- Liverpool Wins: 99
- Draws: 78
- Everton Wins: 67
- At Goodison Park: Everton have a slight edge (W35, D36, L34).
- Last 10 Meetings: Liverpool have dominated, winning six of the last 10 (D3, L1).
What to Expect from Both Sides:
Everton:
David Moyes will be determined to make this a night to remember for Evertonians. Expect a compact, disciplined defensive setup, with the Toffees looking to disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm and hit on the counter. With Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Armando Broja and Youssef Chermiti sidelined, Beto is expected to lead the line.
Vitalii Mykolenko is expected to return at left-back after missing the Bournemouth defeat, adding defensive solidity against Liverpool’s wingers. The Toffees will rely on the energy of Idrissa Gueye and James Garner in midfield to break up Liverpool’s attacking patterns.
Liverpool:
Arne Slot is expected to restore his strongest XI after rotating heavily in the FA Cup defeat at Plymouth. Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo and Virgil van Dijk will return to the starting lineup, while Trent Alexander-Arnold remains a doubt for the game.
Liverpool will aim to control possession and dictate the tempo, using their high press to force errors from Everton’s backline. With Salah’s impressive Merseyside Derby record (six goals in his last eight meetings), he will be a major threat cutting inside from the right.
Key Battles to Watch:
- Jarrad Branthwaite vs. Mohamed Salah:
Branthwaite has been Everton’s defensive leader this season and he’ll need to be at his best to contain Salah’s movement and finishing ability. If the young defender can nullify Liverpool’s Egyptian talisman, Everton’s chances of keeping the game tight will increase significantly.
- Iliman Ndiaye vs. Conor Bradley
Everton’s attacking spark, Ndiaye, will look to exploit the right flank against Bradley, who has impressed in Trent Alexander-Arnold’s absence. Ndiaye’s dribbling ability and unpredictability could test the young full-back, making this a fascinating battle.
- Beto vs. Virgil van Dijk: With Everton expected to play direct, Beto’s aerial ability will be key against Van Dijk, who must ensure Liverpool don’t get bullied in physical battles.
Conclusion:
The emotional significance of this final Goodison Park derby cannot be overstated. Everton’s improved form under Moyes and their recent resilience in this fixture will give them belief, but Liverpool’s relentless title charge and superior squad depth make them favorites. Expect a tightly contested battle, with Liverpool’s quality likely proving decisive in the latter stages.
Prediction: Everton 0-1 Liverpool.