Everton Look to end Goodison Park Merseyside Derby Era on a high note

The final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park is upon us, and Everton enter the clash against Liverpool with renewed confidence under David Moyes despite saturday's loss in FA Cup.

With three consecutive Premier League victories since Moyes' return in January, the Toffees are aiming to replicate last season's spirited 2-0 win over their city rivals.

Belief is key for Toffees

Jarrad Branthwaite, who scored in that memorable victory last March, emphasized the importance of belief ahead of Wednesday’s showdown.

"It is the Merseyside derby, it is another game that we are looking to win, that's it," Branthwaite stated. "If you build it up too much, you can fall under pressure, so we are going into it with the belief that we can get a result like last season."

Everton have used this mindset effectively in recent weeks, securing wins that have lifted them away from the relegation zone.

Key to this resurgence has been Iliman Ndiaye, who has scored in each of his last three Premier League outings. If he finds the net again, he will become the first Everton player since Richarlison in 2021 to score in four straight league matches.

Liverpool’s Response to FA Cup Exit

Liverpool, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back after a shocking FA Cup fourth-round exit to Plymouth Argyle. The loss ended Arne Slot’s hopes of a quadruple in his debut season at Anfield, adding pressure to an already packed fixture list.

With four Premier League matches in 10 days following the derby, Liverpool’s squad depth will be tested. Compounding their concerns, Curtis Jones and Joe Gomez are both likely to miss the Goodison clash after picking up knocks against Plymouth.

Nevertheless, the Reds will have Mohamed Salah back in action. The Egyptian, who was rested for the FA Cup tie, boasts a staggering 21 goal contributions in 12 away league matches this season. Slot will be counting on his talisman to lead Liverpool’s charge.

Historic Stakes and Match Prediction

Liverpool have not lost in their last 19 Premier League matches (14 wins, 5 draws), but history suggests caution. The last two times they have faced Everton while on an unbeaten run of 19+ league games, they lost – in 1978 and 1988.

Furthermore, Liverpool are on the cusp of becoming only the fifth club in English football history to record 100 wins against a single opponent. A victory on Wednesday would see them join an exclusive list alongside Arsenal and Manchester United.

That said, Everton have been in fine form, winning their last three league matches with an 8-2 aggregate score. Moyes has a chance to secure four consecutive league wins for the first time since his West Ham days in 2021, and the Toffees will be eager to use the Goodison crowd as a driving force.

Expect an intense battle

The Merseyside derby has seen the most red cards (23) and the most 0-0 draws (12) in Premier League history. Liverpool have also scored more 90th-minute winners against Everton than any other side has against a single opponent (5).

While Liverpool may be the favorites on paper, Everton’s recent form, combined with the emotional significance of the final Goodison Park derby, could set the stage for another historic night.

One thing is certain – this will be a clash to remember.

 

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