Everton vs Leicester City Preview: English Premier League Clash on 01/02/2025
The English Premier League returns with another exciting fixture as Everton host Leicester City at Goodison Park on Saturday, 1st February 2025. Both teams are fighting for crucial points in the league table, with Everton aiming to climb into the top half and Leicester City pushing for a European qualification spot. Below, we provide a comprehensive preview of the match, including event details, team news, possible lineups, head-to-head record, and how to watch the game live.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, 1st February 2025
Time: 3:00 PM GMT (subject to change based on broadcast schedules)
Venue: Goodison Park, Liverpool, England
Competition: English Premier League, Matchday 24
Goodison Park: The Toffees' Fortress
Goodison Park, with its capacity of over 39,000, is one of the most historic stadiums in English football. Known for its passionate fans and electric atmosphere, the ground has been a stronghold for Everton this season. The Toffees have been solid at home, and Leicester City will need to be at their best to secure a positive result.
Team News
Everton
Everton have been inconsistent this season, but they have shown glimpses of their potential under their manager. However, they will be without a few key players due to injuries and suspensions:
Injuries: Dominic Calvert-Lewin is a doubt after picking up a knock in the previous game. Midfielder Abdoulaye Doucouré is also sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Suspensions: None.
Key Players: Jordan Pickford has been in fine form, making crucial saves to keep Everton in games. Dwight McNeil has been a creative force in midfield, while James Tarkowski has been a rock in defense.
Leicester City
Leicester City, under the management of Enzo Maresca, have been a mid-table side this season, showing flashes of brilliance but struggling for consistency. Their team news includes:
Injuries: Wilfred Ndidi, their midfield enforcer, is out with a calf strain. Star striker Jamie Vardy is also a doubt due to a minor ankle issue.
Suspensions: None.
Key Players: James Maddison has been the creative hub for Leicester, while Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s energy and work rate have been crucial.
Possible Lineups
Everton (4-4-2)
Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford
Defenders: Seamus Coleman, James Tarkowski, Michael Keane, Vitalii Mykolenko
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Amadou Onana, Idrissa Gueye, Dwight McNeil
Forwards: Neal Maupay, Demarai Gray
Leicester City (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Danny Ward
Defenders: Ricardo Pereira, Wout Faes, Harry Souttar, Luke Thomas
Midfielders: Boubakary Soumaré, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall
Attacking Midfielders: James Maddison, Harvey Barnes, Ayoze Pérez
Forward: Patson Daka (if Vardy is unavailable)
Head-to-Head Record
The rivalry between Everton and Leicester City has been relatively balanced over the years. Here’s a look at their recent head-to-head record:
Last 5 Meetings:
Everton 1-2 Leicester City (2024/25 Premier League)
Leicester City 0-1 Everton (2023/24 Premier League)
Everton 2-2 Leicester City (2022/23 Premier League)
Leicester City 1-0 Everton (2022/23 Premier League)
Everton 1-1 Leicester City (2021/22 Premier League)
Leicester City have had the upper hand in recent encounters, but Everton have shown they can be a tough opponent, especially at Goodison Park.
Tactical Preview
Everton’s Approach
Everton are likely to adopt a defensive approach, looking to hit Leicester City on the counter-attack. Their midfield trio of Onana, Gueye, and McNeil will look to disrupt Leicester’s rhythm, while Maupay and Gray will aim to exploit any defensive gaps with their pace and movement. Pickford’s shot-stopping ability could also be a key factor.
Leicester City’s Approach
Leicester City will likely dominate possession and press high up the pitch. Their midfield trio of Soumaré, Dewsbury-Hall, and Maddison will look to control the tempo, while Barnes and Pérez will aim to exploit Everton’s defensive gaps with their pace and movement. Maddison’s creativity and set-piece deliveries could also be a key weapon.
Key Battles to Watch
James Maddison vs Idrissa Gueye: A battle of creativity and control in midfield.
Dwight McNeil vs Ricardo Pereira: Two dynamic players going head-to-head on the flank.
Jordan Pickford vs Patson Daka: Pickford’s shot-stopping ability will be tested by Daka’s pace and finishing.
Prediction
Leicester City’s superior squad depth and recent form make them favorites for this clash. However, Everton’s home advantage and defensive solidity could make it a tight contest.
Predicted Score: Everton 1-2 Leicester City
How to Watch Live
UK: Sky Sports or TNT Sports (check local listings).
USA: NBC Sports or Peacock.
Other Regions: Premier League’s official broadcasting partners in your country.
Streaming: Fans can also stream the match live on platforms like DAZN, FuboTV, or the official Premier League app (subject to regional availability).
Conclusion
The Everton vs Leicester City clash promises to be an entertaining encounter, with both teams eager to secure crucial points in the league table. Whether you’re a fan of the Toffees or the Foxes, this is a game you won’t want to miss. Tune in on 1st February 2025 for what could be a Premier League classic!