Everton vs Arsenal Preview

• Arsenal to win
• Ødegaard to score or assist

A tough 1-0 Merseyside derby defeat in midweek may have dented morale for Everton, but their ten-match unbeaten run prior to that result ensures that optimism still surrounds the club as they continue to pull away from relegation fears.

Next up, however, is a significant test against title-chasing Arsenal, who arrive at Goodison Park needing to win to maintain any hope of catching Liverpool at the top.

Both sides have points to prove and ambitions to keep alive, setting up an intriguing clash between two of England’s most historic clubs.

Everton: Battling Through the Top Six Gauntlet

Everton’s loss at Anfield on Wednesday was their first defeat in ten league matches (W4, D5), yet their winless run now stands at five (D4, L1).

That said, their record against top-six sides this season has been impressive—just two defeats in seven games (D5)—showing they can match stronger opponents, particularly when set up to frustrate and counter.

Goodison Park has traditionally been a difficult place for Arsenal to visit. Despite losing to the Gunners earlier this season, Everton have lost just once in their last six home league games against them (W4, D1).

That 1-0 defeat in September 2023 remains the only recent blemish in a relatively strong home record in this fixture.

The challenge for Everton will be managing a tough upcoming schedule, with their next four matches coming against clubs in the top six pre-round. Points will be hard to come by, but their competitive edge against big teams offers hope.

Arsenal: Still Clinging to the Title Dream

Arsenal’s title aspirations are rapidly fading, particularly after Liverpool’s midweek win over Everton. Mikel Arteta’s side have won two straight league games—beating Chelsea and Fulham—but they remain 12 points off the pace with just eight matches left.

A win here would at least temporarily cut the gap to nine points, but recent history on Merseyside does not favour them. Arsenal have won just three of their last 26 away games in the city (Everton and Liverpool combined – D10, L13).

Despite that record, the Gunners boast the best away form in the league since the start of 2024, collecting more points on the road than any other team.

Their tactical flexibility and ability to dominate weaker opposition away from home should still make them favourites, though they cannot afford any more dropped points.

Head-to-Head and Key Stats

• Everton have lost just one of their last six home league games vs Arsenal (W4, D1)
• Arsenal beat Everton 1-0 in the reverse fixture (September 2023)
• Everton’s loss to Liverpool was their first in 10 league matches
• Arsenal have collected more away points than any other side since January 2024
• Arsenal have won only 3 of their last 26 visits to Merseyside in the Premier League

Key Players to Watch

Iliman Ndiaye (Everton)

Back from a knee injury, Ndiaye could be in line for a starting role. He remains Everton’s joint-top league scorer this season with six goals, and his energy and movement will be vital against Arsenal’s aggressive press.

Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal)

The Norwegian has a strong record against Everton, with five goal contributions in his last seven Premier League appearances against them (G3, A2). However, he’s only scored once in the league since December, and Arsenal will need their captain to rediscover his clinical edge.

Prediction: Arsenal to Edge a Competitive Contest

Everton have shown they can compete with the league’s top sides, particularly at home, and Arsenal’s poor away record on Merseyside will give the Toffees belief.

However, the Gunners’ strong away form in 2024 and their superior attacking quality should be enough to see them scrape a vital three points.

Expect a tight and physical battle, with Arsenal likely needing to be patient to find a breakthrough.

Predicted Score: Everton 0-1 Arsenal

Arsenal keep their slim title hopes alive, while Everton remain comfortably outside the drop zone despite another narrow defeat.

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Everton v Arsenal, 2024/25 | Premier League