Everton welcome Chelsea to Goodison Park amidst a significant shift in their history, following the official announcement of the Friedkin Group’s acquisition of the club.
Fans are hopeful that this marks the beginning of a brighter era, free from recent financial struggles and relegation threats.
However, for now, Sean Dyche’s side must focus on the present, as they sit precariously three points above the relegation zone.
With just one win in their last seven league outings (D4, L2), Everton’s form leaves little room for error, especially with the new owners likely scrutinising Dyche’s leadership.
The Toffees have shown resilience in recent matches, including a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Arsenal, where they frustrated one of the league’s best-attacking units.
Everton’s strategy will likely center around defensive solidity and looking to exploit set pieces and counterattacks, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin leading the line.
Dyche’s team, known for their physicality and work ethic, will aim to unsettle a Chelsea side riding high on confidence.
In stark contrast, Chelsea enter this clash as one of the most in-form teams in Europe.
A comprehensive 5-1 victory over Shamrock Rovers in the UEFA Conference League on Thursday extended their winning streak across all competitions to eight matches.
Domestically, the Blues have been exceptional, with their 2-1 win over Brentford last weekend moving them within two points of Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Enzo Maresca’s men have showcased a blend of attacking flair and defensive discipline, making them a formidable opponent for any side.
Despite their blistering form, Chelsea will need to overcome a poor record at Goodison Park, where they’ve lost five of their last six league visits (W1).
This fixture has historically been a tough one for the Blues, and Everton’s spirited displays against top teams this season suggest it could be another challenging encounter.
Tactical Battles :
– Everton’s Defensive Resilience
Everton’s ability to frustrate Arsenal last week demonstrates their capacity to defend deep and limit space for opposition attackers.
Sean Dyche will likely deploy a compact 4-5-1 or 4-4-2 shape, looking to crowd Chelsea’s creative midfielders like Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez.
– Chelsea’s Pressing and Fluid Attack
Chelsea’s high press has been a hallmark of their success under Maresca.
With the likes of Nicolas Jackson and Palmer excelling in transitions, the Blues will aim to exploit any lapses in Everton’s defensive structure.
– Set Pieces
With aerial threats like Calvert-Lewin and Tarkowski, Everton could look to capitalize on set-piece opportunities, especially given Chelsea’s occasional vulnerability in defending such situations.
Players to Watch
– Everton: Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Calvert-Lewin is one start away from reaching 200 appearances for Everton in all competitions.
He has scored two league goals against Chelsea in his career, both coming at Goodison Park in December.
His physical presence and hold-up play will be vital for Everton’s attacking threat.
– Chelsea: Cole Palmer
Palmer is enjoying a stellar season, having scored a hat-trick against Everton in April and consistently delivering in key moments.
With 57 shots and 44 chances created, he’s been directly involved in over 100 goal attempts this season, underlining his importance to Chelsea’s attacking output.
Potential Lineups:
Everton: 4-3-3 – Pickford; Young, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko; Mangala, Gueye, Doucoure; Harrison, Calvert-lewin, Ndiaye.
Chelsea: 4-2-3-1 – Sanchez; Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, Veiga; Caicedo, Enzo; Neto, Palmer, Sancho; Jackson.
Key Stats :
– Everton have drawn four of their last seven Premier League matches (W1, L2), showing their ability to grind out results against tougher opposition.
– Chelsea have scored in each of their last 18 Premier League matches, averaging over 2.5 goals per game in their last eight.
– The home side has emerged victorious in five of the last six meetings between these teams at Goodison Park.
Where to watch:
United Kingdom: The game will not be shown live in the UK
United States: USA Network
Canada: Fubo TV
India: Hot Star VIP, JioTV
Australia: Optus Sport.
Nigeria: SuperSports.
Score Prediction: Everton 1-2 Chelsea
Conclusion:
Everton will look to make life difficult for Chelsea, relying on their home crowd and defensive discipline.
However, with Chelsea’s red-hot form and their attacking depth, the Blues should have enough quality to secure the win despite the historical challenges at Goodison Park.
