Everton vs Liverpool Preview & Prediction: Odds, Lineups & Best Bet

The first-ever Premier League Merseyside derby at the Hill Dickinson Stadium is set to take place this Super Sunday, April 19th, as Everton host Liverpool in a clash that carries both historic and competitive significance.

Far more than local pride is on the line. Everton are pushing for a long-awaited return to European football, while Liverpool arrive under pressure to salvage their season after a damaging Champions League exit. With both sides chasing continental qualification, this derby of Liverpool could have lasting implications beyond Merseyside.

Head-to-Head History (H2H: Everton vs Liverpool)

Few fixtures in English football carry the weight of the Merseyside derby, and recent history suggests that Liverpool rarely find life easy away to Everton. The Toffees avoided defeat in the final derby at Goodison Park – a match still remembered for its drama and intensity – and the balance of power has been far tighter than long-term records might suggest.

Liverpool did claim a narrow 2-1 win in the reverse fixture earlier this campaign, but visits across Stanley Park have often been unpredictable. With just one win each across the last eight meetings at Everton’s home ground, the clash between Everton and Liverpool remains one of the most finely poised rivalries in the league.

Everton – Current Form and Squad News

David Moyes’ side are building genuine momentum at exactly the right time. A dramatic 2-2 draw away at fellow European hopefuls Brentford last weekend extended their strong run of form, with The Toffees now collecting 10 points from their last five league matches.

That consistency has pushed Everton to within touching distance of the European places, sitting just one point behind sixth-place Chelsea ahead of this round. A victory here would not only strengthen their position but also take them beyond the 50-point mark for the first time since the 2020/21 campaign.

Home form has been a key factor. Convincing wins over Burnley (2-0) and Chelsea (3-0) have set the tone at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, and a third consecutive home victory would mark a significant milestone in the club’s new era.

Late goals have become a defining feature of Everton’s season, with a notable percentage arriving in the closing stages. That resilience could prove decisive in a high-pressure derby environment.

In terms of team news, Moyes has the luxury of a largely fit squad. Only Jack Grealish is unavailable, while the rest of the group is intact. Beto continues to lead the line after another decisive contribution last weekend, firmly establishing himself as the main attacking outlet for The Toffees.

Liverpool – Current Form and Squad News

Well, the situation at Liverpool is far less stable. A midweek Champions League exit at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain has only deepened concerns surrounding Arne Slot, whose position remains under intense scrutiny. That defeat made it four losses in Liverpool’s last five matches across all competitions, highlighting a sharp downturn in form this season.

While a recent 2-0 league win over Fulham briefly steadied the ship, the overall picture remains troubling. Away from Anfield, the numbers are particularly concerning, with Liverpool losing their last four matches on the road and scoring just once in them.

Fatigue is another factor. After setbacks in both domestic and European competitions, the pressure to secure Champions League qualification through the league has intensified. That said, Sunday’s clash represents not just a derby, but a critical step in salvaging their campaign.

Injury issues continue to mount. Hugo Ekitike has suffered a serious Achilles injury and is ruled out long-term, joining Alisson, Giovanni Leoni, Joe Gomez, Conor Bradley, and Wataru Endo on the sidelines.

Even though Alexander Isak is available, the Swedish forward is not expected to start due to fitness limitations, meaning the attacking burden will likely fall on players such as Cody Gakpo, Florian Wirtz and an out-of-form Mohamed Salah, who is playing his final games for Liverpool before his recently announced departure.

Tactical Duel: David Moyes vs Arne Slot

David Moyes has crafted a disciplined, well-organized Everton side that thrives on structure, defensive solidity, and late-game impact. His team is comfortable operating without the ball and capitalizing on key moments.

Arne Slot, meanwhile, prefers a more progressive, attacking style – though recent performances suggest that balance has been lost. Liverpool’s defensive vulnerabilities and inconsistent pressing have made them increasingly exposed, particularly away from Anfield.

If Everton can keep the game controlled and physical, they will fancy their chances of exploiting Liverpool’s current weaknesses.

Possible Starting XIs of Everton vs Liverpool

Everton: Jordan Pickford – Nathan Patterson, James Tarkowski, Jarrad Branthwaite, Vitaliy Mykolenko – James Garner, Idrissa Gueye – Dwight McNeil, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Iliman Ndiaye – Beto. (4-2-3-1)

Liverpool: Giorgi Mamardashvili – Dominik Szoboszlai, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, Milos Kerkez – Ryan Gravenberch, Curtis Jones – Mohamed Salah, Florian Wirtz, Rio Ngumoha – Cody Gakpo. (4-2-3-1)

Everton vs Liverpool Betting Odds and Prediction

The latest betting odds from EveryGame suggest a competitive encounter. Despite their struggles throughout the season, Liverpool are slight favorites at +120, while the hosts are priced at +210, with the draw at +215.

On paper, Liverpool still carry more individual quality. But context – and current form – tells a different story. Everton are organized, confident, and playing with purpose, particularly at their new home. Liverpool, on the other hand, arrive under huge pressure, dealing with injuries, fatigue, and a poor away record.

This feels like a moment where momentum outweighs reputation. Backing 1X (Everton or Draw) alongside over 1.5 Goals at +115 offers strong value. Everton’s late-game threat combined with Liverpool’s attacking talent suggests goals are likely, but the Toffees look better equipped to handle the occasion.

Expect a tense, physical contest – but one where Everton’s tactical discipline, passion and energy could prove decisive in writing a new chapter in Merseyside derby history.

Everton vs Liverpool Best Bet: 1X (Everton or Draw) and Over 1.5 Goals +115 at EveryGame for 5/10 Units