The stage is set for an electric night at Goodison Park as Everton and Liverpool prepare to clash in what will be the final Merseyside derby played at this historic venue. It’s a matchup that carries extra weight, not just because of the long-standing rivalry, but because it will be the last time these two fierce competitors battle it out at Goodison before Everton moves to their new home at Bramley-Moore Dock.
Originally scheduled for early December, this derby had to be postponed at the last moment due to Storm Darragh’s impact on Merseyside. Since then, a lot has changed—especially for Everton. David Moyes has taken the managerial reins from Sean Dyche, leading the Toffees on an impressive three-game winning streak in the Premier League and steering them away from relegation danger. Add to that the arrival of new owners, the Friedkin Group, and there’s a wave of optimism surrounding Everton’s future. But before looking ahead, the team and their fans are ready to pour their emotions into one last epic showdown at Goodison Park.
Meanwhile, Liverpool comes into this fixture with a mixed bag of emotions. Their shock 1-0 FA Cup exit at the hands of second-tier Plymouth Argyle over the weekend was an unexpected blow. However, the bigger picture still looks bright for the Reds. They sit at the top of the Premier League table, have a Champions League last-16 tie to look forward to, and are set to play in the League Cup final. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and with this being their game in hand over Arsenal, Liverpool has a golden opportunity to stretch their lead at the top to nine points with just 14 matches remaining in the season.
Where and When to Watch
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Kickoff Time: 2:30 PM ET, Wednesday (February 12)
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Venue: Goodison Park, Liverpool
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TV Channel: USA
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Streaming: Watch live on NBC.com
Everton’s Team News & Key Focus
Everton will look to build on their recent momentum, and striker Beto is expected to be a key figure. With injuries sidelining key attackers like Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Armando Broja, and Dwight McNeil, Beto stepped up in their last match, netting two calm and clinical finishes in a dominant 4-0 win over Leicester. Expect Moyes to play a direct game, utilizing Beto’s ability to run in behind defenders while midfielders Doucoure, Ndiaye, and Lindstrom provide attacking support.
A crucial player to watch is Everton’s January loan signing, Carlos Alcaraz. His well-timed runs into the box make him a significant threat, and Liverpool’s defense will need to be at its sharpest to keep him in check.
Injury List for Everton:
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OUT: Orel Mangala (knee), Dominic Calvert-Lewin (thigh), Armando Broja (ankle), Dwight McNeil (knee), Seamus Coleman (calf), Youssef Chermiti (thigh)
Liverpool’s Team News & Key Focus
For Liverpool, expect to see their top stars back in action after the FA Cup debacle. Alisson, Robertson, Van Dijk, Konate, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Gakpo, and Salah were all rested against Plymouth but will return for this all-important clash.
However, there are still concerns on the defensive end. Joe Gomez suffered an injury in the FA Cup loss, and Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to remain out, meaning young Conor Bradley will likely start at right-back. Liverpool’s front three should feature Gakpo, Salah, and Nunez, a trio capable of wreaking havoc on any defense.
Injury List for Liverpool:
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OUT: Joe Gomez (hamstring)
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QUESTIONABLE: Trent Alexander-Arnold (hamstring)
What to Expect: A Derby for the Ages
Derbies between these two sides are always intense, but this one carries a unique weight. Liverpool enters as favorites, but history suggests they’ve often struggled at Goodison Park. Last season, Everton stunned the Reds with a 2-0 victory here, dealing a major blow to Liverpool’s title hopes.
Moyes is a master of frustrating bigger teams, and with Everton’s recent resurgence, expect a fiercely competitive battle. The Toffees will be determined to make their final derby at Goodison a memorable one, while Liverpool knows that dropping points here could dent their title charge.
Prediction: A Thrilling, Emotional Encounter
It’s going to be wild, no doubt about it. Everton will make it tough for Liverpool, using their defensive structure and counter-attacking threats to keep things tight. The Reds, on the other hand, will rely on their firepower to break through.
Final prediction: Everton 2-2 Liverpool. A fittingly dramatic end to the Goodison era of the Merseyside derby.
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