Everton vs Brentford Preview
- Over 2.5 goals
- Wissa to score
Everton host Brentford at Goodison Park as both teams look to address inconsistencies in their Premier League campaigns.
With Everton boasting a resilient defence but struggling in attack, and Brentford displaying goal-filled matches yet faltering away from home, this promises to be an intriguing contest.
Everton: Solid Defence, Struggling Attack
Everton’s recent form has been a mixed bag. Sean Dyche’s side has lost only one of their last seven league games but has managed just two wins in that run.
Their defensive stability stands out, conceding only two goals since the start of October—the best record in the league during that time. However, their attacking woes persist, as Everton have failed to score in five games this season, the most in the Premier League.
Dyche will be wary of his side going three consecutive games without scoring, something that has happened twice already under his tenure. Nonetheless, history suggests goals are likely, as no match between these teams has ever ended goalless in 24 all-time meetings.
Brentford: Prolific but Vulnerable
Thomas Frank’s Brentford have been involved in high-scoring affairs, with their 11 matches producing a league-high 44 goals (GF: 22, GA: 22).
However, their away form has been a glaring weakness, losing all five of their league trips this season. Despite their struggles on the road, Brentford sit comfortably in mid-table, six points clear of Everton.
Breaking their poor record at Goodison Park will be a key objective for Frank’s side, as they’ve lost five of their six league visits here, including their last two trips, both by 1-0 scorelines.
Key Players to Watch
Dwight McNeil (Everton)
McNeil has been Everton’s standout attacking player, directly contributing to six of their ten league goals this season (G3, A3). His history against Brentford is also promising, with three goal contributions in six H2Hs (G1, A2).
Yoane Wissa (Brentford)
Wissa has been incredibly efficient, scoring seven league goals from just 15 shots this season, boasting a league-high conversion rate of 47% among players with at least five attempts. His clinical finishing could be crucial for Brentford to break through Everton’s solid defence.
Tactical Insights: Everton’s Resilience vs. Brentford’s Creativity
Everton’s strength lies in their defensive organisation, and Dyche will aim to frustrate Brentford’s creative players while looking to capitalise on set pieces and counter-attacks. McNeil’s ability to deliver crosses and create chances will be key for the Toffees.
Brentford, meanwhile, will look to impose their attacking style, using Wissa’s clinical finishing and Bryan Mbeumo’s creativity to exploit any gaps in Everton’s defence.
However, their vulnerability at the back on the road means they must tighten up defensively to secure a positive result.
Final Thoughts
Everton’s defensive solidity and Brentford’s high-scoring games make for an intriguing contrast. While the Toffees aim to address their scoring issues, Brentford will seek to end their dreadful away record and improve their standing in mid-table.
Will Everton’s defence hold firm, or can Brentford finally secure their first points on the road this season?
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Everton v Brentford, 2024/25 | Premier League