Brighton vs Everton Preview
- Brighton to win
- Over 1.5 goals
Brighton welcome Everton to the Amex Stadium in a fixture that carries significance for both teams.
The Seagulls are seeking to build on recent successes and revive their home form, while Everton aim to overcome their travelling woes under the guidance of returning manager David Moyes. Here’s a detailed preview of what to expect from this Premier League encounter.
Brighton: Seagulls Eyeing a Home Revival
Brighton appear to have turned a corner after enduring an eight-game winless streak in the Premier League (D6, L2). Back-to-back victories, including an impressive 3-1 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford, have reignited their campaign.
However, manager Fabian Hürzeler now faces the challenge of translating that away form into results at the Amex Stadium, where Brighton are winless in their last four matches (D3, L1).
A victory over Everton would be particularly meaningful, as it would secure Brighton’s first-ever league double over the Toffees.
The Seagulls convincingly beat Everton 3-0 at Goodison Park on the opening day of the season, giving them a psychological edge heading into this match. With European ambitions still within reach, a home win is crucial for Brighton to maintain their upward momentum.
Everton: Moyes’ Challenge on the Road
David Moyes’ second spell as Everton manager began positively, with the Toffees claiming a morale-boosting 3-2 win over Tottenham last weekend.
While that victory lifted spirits, Everton’s dismal away record looms large. They have won just once in their last 21 Premier League away games (D8, L12), a 2-0 victory against Ipswich in October, and Moyes faces a tough task in reversing their fortunes on the road.
Adding to the challenge is Moyes’ poor record against Brighton. With just one win in ten league meetings against the Seagulls (D5, L4), they represent his lowest win rate against any opponent in the competition.
However, his sole victory came during his last visit to the Amex Stadium in August 2023 as West Ham manager, a result he’ll hope to replicate with Everton.
Key Players to Watch
Brighton: Kaoru Mitoma
Kaoru Mitoma has been a standout performer for Brighton this season and he has the chance to make history in this match.
If the Japanese forward scores, he’ll become the first player from Japan to net in three consecutive Premier League games. Mitoma’s pace, trickery and clinical finishing make him a constant threat, particularly against an Everton defence that has struggled away from home.
Everton: Illiman Ndiaye
Illiman Ndiaye has been a bright spark for Everton and his goal against Tottenham last weekend extended his unbeaten record in matches where he has scored this season (W4, D2).
Ndiaye’s movement and ability to find space in the box will be crucial for Everton as they look to break down Brighton’s defence and capitalise on counter-attacking opportunities.
Tactical Insights
Brighton’s Approach
Brighton are likely to dominate possession and control the tempo of the game. Fabian Hürzeler’s team thrives on building attacks through their midfield, with Lewis Dunk and Van Hecke providing a strong foundation.
Mitoma and Joao Pedro will be key in stretching Everton’s defence, while Welbeck’s presence in the box offers a focal point for their attacking play.
Everton’s Strategy
Under Moyes, Everton are expected to adopt a compact and disciplined defensive structure, aiming to frustrate Brighton and hit them on the counter.
Calvert-Lewin and Doucoure will be tasked with providing width and creativity, while Ndiaye’s ability to lead the line and link up play will be vital in exploiting Brighton’s occasional defensive lapses.
Head-to-Head Record
Brighton hold the upper hand in recent meetings, with their 3-0 victory at Goodison Park on the opening day of the season serving as a reminder of their capabilities.
However, Everton have shown they can cause problems for Brighton, as evidenced by Moyes’ win at the Amex Stadium last year with West Ham.
Predictions and Final Thoughts
Brighton’s recent form and home advantage make them favourites to secure three points, especially with the added incentive of achieving a historic league double over Everton.
However, Everton’s newfound confidence under Moyes and their counter-attacking potential could make this a closely contested affair.
Predicted Scoreline: Brighton 2-1 Everton
Brighton’s attacking quality, spearheaded by Mitoma, should edge out a resilient Everton side. Expect a competitive match with moments of quality deciding the outcome.
Conclusion
This encounter at the Amex Stadium pits a rejuvenated Brighton against an Everton side desperate to improve their away form.
With both teams having much to play for, the match promises to be an engaging battle of tactics and talent. Fans will be watching closely to see if Brighton can make history or if Moyes can mastermind another victory at the Amex.
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Brighton v Everton, 2024/25 | Premier League