Everton Football Club will host Leicester City this Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Goodison Park, as both teams grapple to maintain their Premier League status amid mounting pressure. Currently, Everton is 16th with 23 points, just seven points clear of the relegation zone, and will aim to extend their recent winning streak following successive victories over Tottenham and Brighton.
The Toffees have certainly found their footing under manager David Moyes, demonstrating resilience and organizational strength after lifting themselves from the brink of relegation. Last week’s 1-0 win at Brighton not only showcased their recent form but also marked their second consecutive victory, something they hadn’t achieved this season until now. Despite dominating only 31% possession and managing just three shots, Everton made the most of their few opportunities—a combination highlighted by Iliman Ndiaye’s penalty securing the win.
Leicester City, currently one spot beneath Everton at 17th and with 17 points, arrives at Goodison Park fresh off a surprising 2-1 victory against Tottenham. This triumph was significant as it ended their stretchy stretch of seven consecutive defeats and has momentarily lifted their spirits, allowing them to climb just above the relegation zone by only one point.
Historically, this matchup has favored both teams equally, with Everton and Leicester each winning 36 times out of 112 encounters, and 40 victories for the Toffees at home. The fixture promises excitement as both clubs are motivated to secure the three points—crucial for their survival hopes.
For Everton, injuries pose a significant challenge. Forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin and midfielder Orel Mangala are notable absences due to hamstring and knee injuries, respectively. They join fellow teammates, including Armando Broja and Dwight McNeil, on the list of sidelined stars—a situation leaving Moyes with limited options up front. Beto is expected to lead the line, likely receiving support from Iliman Ndiaye and James Garner.
Leicester City, under the stewardship of manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, is also facing injury woes. Without key players like Ricardo Pereira and Abdul Fatawu, they will have to find balance and creativity with their existing squad. Goalkeeper Jakub Stolarczyk continues to occupy the net, with defenders Jannik Vestergaard and Wout Faes likely ensuring stability at the back.
Jamie Vardy, who has scored seven league goals against Everton, will be one to watch on the pitch; hitting his eighth there could lift the Foxes above their present struggles as he recently celebrated his 38th birthday.
Fans will expect another tight encounter; the previous match between these teams ended 1-1, and the last time they met at Goodison Park saw Leicester secure a convincing 2-0 victory back in November 2022. With the stakes high and both teams desperate for points, every moment will be integral.
Kick-off is set for 15:00 GMT, and this contest holds great significance for both clubs. A victory for Everton could send them on their way to mid-table tranquillity, moving them even farther from the relegation battle. Leicester, on the other hand, needs to capitalize on their momentum and build on last week’s performance.
Television fans can follow the action on Peacock (USA) or via Fubo Sports Network 5 Canada, which will broadcast the match live. The clash could set the tone for the remainder of each team’s season—a reminder of the fierce competition and unpredictability inherent to Premier League football.
Expectations lean slightly toward the home side due to Everton's current form and home advantage. Recent analysis indicates they may edge out Leicester with predictably low scoring as both teams have struggled offensively throughout the campaign. Predictions suggest this could culminate in another tight outcome, with scores being largely dictated by who capitalizes on any defensive slip-ups:
Prediction: Everton 1-0 Leicester City.