Premier League – Gameweek 5

Saturday, September 20, 2025 • Anfield

Recent Form & Context

Liverpool are off to a perfect start in the Premier League this season: 4 wins from 4. They also advanced in their Champions League opener with a dramatic win over Atlético Madrid (3-2), with a late winner.

Everton have had a more modest but decent start: 7 points from four matches. Wins over Brighton and Wolves, plus a draw with Villa. Their creativity has been boosted by new signings like Jack Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.

However, Everton have never won a Premier League game at Anfield under David Moyes in 20 attempts. That adds a psychological barrier.

Key Storylines / Things to Watch

1. Late drama from Liverpool

A recurring theme: Liverpool have been relying on late goals to win matches this season. Several victories were secured after the 83rd minute. They haven’t always dominated from start to finish, but have found ways to pull through.

2. Everton’s improvements vs finishing touch

Good build-up play, creativity, and some defensive solidity. But they’re lacking a reliable finisher and have dropped points from chances. If they are to pull off anything here, they’ll need to be clinical.

3. Anfield advantage

Liverpool’s strong home record in derbies: very rarely do Everton leave Anfield with anything. That weighs heavily, both in terms of confidence and crowd.

4. Injuries / Doubts

Everton have defensive doubts: Jarrad Branthwaite (hamstring) and Vitaliy Mykolenko (groin) are questionable.

Liverpool seem in better shape, though there are always concerns of fatigue given mid-week European action.

Predictions & Probabilities

Liverpool are clear favourites: odds suggest a high likelihood of them winning.

Over/Under goals: many expect under 3.5 goals. It may not be a goal-fest, owing to Everton’s defensive organizing and Liverpool’s habit of early dominance but finishing games strongly.

Both Teams to Score (BTTS) is plausible: Everton have enough attacking talent now to trouble Liverpool, particularly through set pieces or counter-attacks.

Possible Lineups / Tactical Notes

Liverpool will likely field a 4-3-3 or variation, with emphasis on wing play and pressing. Expect players like Salah, Ekitike, Gakpo up front; midfield workhorse trio to control tempo.

Everton might sit deeper, look to absorb pressure and try to hit on the break, with creative midfielders pushing forward (e.g. Grealish, Dewsbury-Hall). Defensive stability will be key.

Prediction

Scoreline: Liverpool 2-0 Everton seems likely.

What it might look like: A tight first half, Liverpool pressing but not fully breaking through. Everton holding on, maybe threatening occasionally. Then Liverpool squeeze in the game in second half or late on. Possibly a goal from set-piece or a moment of individual brilliance.

Best Bets: Liverpool to win; under 3.5 goals; maybe BTTS (yes) depending on Everton’s attacking output.