This Saturday at Anfield, Liverpool will face Everton in Premier League Round 5. This match marks the 244th official Merseyside derby, with both teams displaying strong form leading into the game. Here’s a look at what to expect.
Match preview
Under the guidance of Arne Slot, Liverpool has had an excellent start to the season, winning all four of their matches, including victories over Arsenal and Newcastle. Their offensive style is impressive, but they have shown vulnerabilities in defense, conceding goals in five of their last six home games.
Key players like Salah, Wirtz, and Ekitike are performing well, but many wins have required late efforts to secure the points. This could pose a challenge in the derby, as Everton is capable of withstanding pressure and countering effectively.
Everton’s season has begun better than anticipated, sitting in the top half of the table. After an opening-match loss, they have gathered 7 points from three games, including two wins and a clean sheet against Aston Villa. Their defense has tightened, achieving five clean sheets in their last six Premier League matches.
However, their offense is not as strong, often fighting hard for scoring opportunities. Historically, Everton struggles at Anfield, but their current form gives them a chance to secure at least a draw, as long as they avoid conceding early and can match Liverpool’s rhythm.
Probable lineups
- Liverpool: Alisson Becker, Kerkez, Konate, Van Dijk, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Gakpo, Gravenberch, Salah, Wirtz, Ekitike
- Everton: Pickford, Keane, Tarkowski, O’Brien, Gueye, Garner, Grealish, Dewsbury-Hall, Iroegbunam, Beto, Ndiaye
Match facts and head-to-head
- Liverpool has defeated Everton six times in their last seven meetings at Anfield.
- Everton has not scored in 5 of their last 6 away Premier League derbies against Liverpool.
- In 5 of Everton’s last 6 Premier League matches, at least one team has kept a clean sheet.
Prediction
Liverpool is favored to win based on their strong start this season. However, Everton’s defensive improvements may allow them to challenge. A bet on “Under 3.5 goals” at odds of 1.56 could be worthwhile given the circumstances.