Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Wed 15 April 2026 10:10, UK

Everton will be feeling even more confident about their Merseyside derby chances after Liverpool’s Champions League exit.

The Toffees head into the first derby at Hill Dickinson Stadium with plenty of rest and, so far, no new injury concerns – touch wood.

A win on Sunday would be momentous for David Moyes’ side, not only for confidence as the run-in continues but also for their position in the battle for Europe.

Bragging rights over Liverpool at the new stadium would also be quite enjoyable for supporters.

The thought of an Everton win against Liverpool is growing increasingly realistic, as things continue to get worse for the Toffees’ rivals.

Why Everton can take further advantage of Liverpool’s goalscoring woes

Moyes has not often got the better of Liverpool, but the red side of the city ran into many issues against PSG that will be an advantage for Everton.

For one, Hugo Ekitike had to be withdrawn through injury, and after being stretchered off, it’s being shared that it may be months out with a ruptured Achilles.

Additionally, the news is made even worse for the Toffees’ rivals, as Slot admitted Alexander Isak is still not yet up to the required fitness after returning from a leg break.

The Swedish international was only able to play 45 minutes on Tuesday night.

A double blow for Liverpool that may ultimately play a significant factor in L3. Over their last four games, Liverpool have scored just two goals from a total expected goals of 5.16.

Slot’s side are struggling to find the net, and without a fully ready combination of their £200million striking duo, that could continue, much to Moyes’ bemusement.

Everton in prime position to frustrate Liverpool

This season, Everton have quietly built the fifth-best defence in the Premier League, conceding 35 goals in 32 games.

With Liverpool struggling to score, this is not the type of opponent they want to face next. The Toffees must make life hard for the Reds and ensure that this game does turn into a basketball affair on the pitch.

Moyes’ side have all the tools at their disposal already to thwart Liverpool, and handing them any boost by keeping the game end-to-end must be avoided.

Discipline must be key, and despite this fixture notoriously having the most red cards out of any Premier League matchup, keeping things tame on this occasion may be the wisest tactic.

Bragging rights and another step towards Europe is on the cards.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Goodison Park.