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Preview: Everton and Liverpool Clash in Goodison’s Final Merseyside Derby

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This Saturday marks the end of an era as Everton welcome Liverpool to Goodison Park for the final Merseyside derby at the iconic stadium. With Everton set to move to their new Bramley-Moore Dock home next season, this derby carries an added weight of history and emotion for both sides of the divide.

Photo IMAGO

Historic Occasion Amid Contrasting Fortunes

For Everton, Sean Dyche’s side will aim to deliver a fitting farewell to Goodison Park, a ground that has witnessed decades of highs and lows. Despite a difficult Premier League campaign, Wednesday’s emphatic 4-0 win over Wolves has provided a glimmer of hope in their battle against relegation.

On the other hand, Liverpool approach the derby from a position of strength. Arne Slot’s men sit atop the Premier League table but have seen their lead reduced to seven points after a thrilling 3-3 draw with Newcastle. With Arsenal and Chelsea chasing, maintaining momentum is paramount as fixtures come thick and fast.

Photo: IMAGO

Key Match Details

Date: Saturday, 7 December 2024

Kick-off: 12:30 pm GMT

Venue: Goodison Park, Liverpool

TV: TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate

Stream: Discovery+ app for subscribers

Team News

Everton could call upon Armando Broja, who impressed on his league debut midweek. However, Timothy Iroegbunam, James Garner, Dele, and Youssef Chermiti remain sidelined, while Michael Keane faces a late fitness test.

Liverpool are without Alexis Mac Allister due to suspension and have injuries to Ibrahima Konate, Kostas Tsimikas, and Conor Bradley. Alisson Becker and Diogo Jota are edging closer to fitness, while Federico Chiesa continues his recovery with appearances at U21 level.

Photo: IMAGO

Prediction and H2H Record

Despite Goodison Park’s influence, Liverpool’s form this season makes them clear favourites. A 2-0 win for the Reds seems likely as they aim to extend their dominance in the head-to-head record, which currently stands at:

Everton Wins: 84

Draws: 86

Liverpool Wins: 125

This final Goodison derby promises to be as much about emotion as it is about points. For Liverpool, it’s another step toward their title ambitions. For Everton, it’s about pride and preserving the legacy of their historic home ground.

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