Everton vs Tottenham Preview
- Draw
- Both teams to score
Everton welcome Tottenham Hotspur to Goodison Park on Saturday in a clash that pits two struggling teams against each other.
Both sides are desperate for points to steady their respective campaigns, with Everton flirting dangerously with the relegation zone and Tottenham reeling from poor form and managerial uncertainty.
Everton: Moyes’ Troubles Return
David Moyes’ second stint at Everton hasn’t started as hoped, with the Toffees suffering a 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa in midweek.
That loss extended their winless streak to four games (D1, L3) and highlighted their ongoing issues in front of goal.
Everton have failed to score in their last three league games and are now one of just four teams in Premier League history to fail to score in 12 of their opening 20 matches.
While their defensive organisation has been steady at times, the lack of cutting edge up front is crippling Moyes’ hopes of a quick turnaround.
Everton’s position just a point above the relegation zone underscores the need for an improved display against Tottenham, a side they haven’t beaten at home in 11 league encounters.
Key Player to Watch
Jarrad Branthwaite: The young centre-back has been solid at the back but will need to curb his disciplinary issues, having picked up three yellow cards in his last four games.
Tottenham: Under Pressure
Ange Postecoglou’s side is in a precarious position following a 2-1 loss to Arsenal in the North London derby, a result that leaves Spurs closer to the relegation zone than the top four.
Tottenham have now lost seven of their last 11 league games, and speculation about Postecoglou’s future is mounting.
Defensive vulnerabilities and a lack of cohesion in attack have plagued Spurs all season, but they will look to Richarlison, who has returned from injury, to provide a spark.
A trip to Goodison Park offers a glimmer of hope, as Spurs are unbeaten in their last 11 league visits there (W3, D8). Another win would see them complete a league double over Everton for the first time since 2017/18.
Key Player to Watch
Richarlison: The former Everton forward scored twice at Goodison last season and will be eager to haunt his old club once again.
Head-to-Head Record
- Spurs are unbeaten in their last 11 Premier League visits to Goodison Park (W3, D8).
- The last encounter at Goodison Park ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw.
- Tottenham won the reverse fixture earlier this season 2-0.
Tactical Insights and Key Battles
Everton’s Defence vs Spurs’ Attack
With Richarlison back in action and Son Heung-min leading the line, Tottenham have the firepower to trouble Everton’s defence.
Everton’s centre-backs, led by Tarkowski and Branthwaite, must be disciplined and organised to prevent Spurs from exploiting their vulnerabilities.
Midfield Control
The midfield battle will be crucial, with Everton relying on the physicality of Doucoure and Gueye to disrupt Tottenham’s rhythm. Spurs’ creative spark will come from James Maddison, whose playmaking ability can unlock tight defences.
Set-Pieces and Aerial Duels
Given Everton’s lack of attacking options, set-pieces could be their best chance to score. Tarkowski and Branthwaite are aerial threats, while Tottenham must remain alert to avoid conceding from dead-ball situations.
Prediction: Another Stalemate at Goodison
Both teams are struggling for form, and this fixture could reflect their current predicaments. While Tottenham boast the attacking quality to edge proceedings, Everton’s desperation and defensive solidity could help them earn a valuable point.
Predicted Score: Everton 1-1 Tottenham
Final Thoughts
This match is a critical opportunity for both sides to regain momentum in their troubled campaigns. With both teams under pressure, expect a cagey affair at Goodison Park.
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Everton v Spurs, 2024/25 | Premier League