Everton vs Aston Villa
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It's a clash of one of the most highly anticipated Premier League encounters of the season, with Everton hosting Aston Villa at Goodison Park on January 15, 2025. The Toffees are in desperate need of getting their season back on track after a string of underwhelming results, while Villa has remained firmly in the race for European spots on the back of an impressive run under manager Unai Emery. Here's everything you need to know about the matchup, including key stats, previous encounters, and expert predictions.
Everton vs Aston Villa: A Rivalry of Yesteryear
The history of Everton and Aston Villa runs deep in English football, with both teams having a long-standing history of passionate fans and competitive games. The two teams have played each other a total of 53 times in the Premier League since their first match in the early 1900s, with Aston Villa leading the head-to-head record.
- Everton Wins: 14
- Aston Villa Wins: 23
- Draws: 16
Regarding goals scored, Villa has an edge, scoring 82 goals to Everton's 68. The stats indicate that, even though Everton is a tough opposition, Aston Villa always seems to be in good books in this fixture.
Recent Form: Everton's Struggles vs Villa's Resurgence
Everton's Current Form
The Toffees are having a somewhat torrid season and have failed to find any consistency in the Premier League thus far. Currently positioned in 15th place, Everton have managed only a few wins and will be required to perform better at home if they want to avoid relegation. While recent performances against top-flight teams have been highly disappointing, a win against Villa could provide the much-needed turnaround.
- Recent Premier League Form: 1 win, 3 losses, 1 draw in the last 5 matches
- Home Record: 2 wins, 4 losses in their last 6 home games
Aston Villa's Impressive Campaign
On the other side, Aston Villa have been flying under the management of Unai Emery, a position in the top half of the table well intact, with 6th place secured in this season and pushing for Champions League qualification on their great run. Strong in the offense and solid at the back of the ground, Villa has been one of the forces this season.
- Recent Premier League Form: 4 wins, 1 draw in the last 5 matches
- Away Record: 3 wins, 2 losses in their last 5 away games
Key Stats & Insights
- Goals Scored (2024/2025 Season):
- Everton: 18 goals in 17 matches
- Aston Villa: 28 goals in 17 matches
- Goals Conceded:
- Everton: 24 goals conceded
- Aston Villa: 18 goals conceded
- Head-to-Head in Last 5 Meetings:
- Aston Villa 3-2 Everton (September 2024)
- Everton 1-1 Aston Villa (April 2024)
- Aston Villa 2-1 Everton (January 2024)
- Everton 0-2 Aston Villa (October 2023)
- Aston Villa 1-0 Everton (May 2023)
Key Players to Watch
For Everton, much will depend on Dominic Calvert-Lewin's fitness and ability to lead the line. If he's fit and firing, he can pose a significant threat to Villa's defense. Midfielder Idrissa Gueye will also be crucial in disrupting Villa's midfield dominance.
For Aston Villa, the consistent form of Ollie Watkins has been a highlight, with regular goals coming in. Much of Villa's attacking impetus will run through him. For Tyrone Mings at the back, much work will be needed to nullify the Everton attacking players.
Tactics & Predictions
Everton's Game Plan
Under Sean Dyche, Everton has relied on a heavy dosage of defensive solidity, but they will have to be far more creative going forward in their bid to unlock Villa's compact defense. The key will indeed be playing direct football and using width to stretch Villa's defense.
Aston Villa's Strengths
High-pressing and attacking threat through the wings have made Villa one of the most dangerous teams this season. With Leon Bailey and John McGinn providing width, they can dominate possession and pin Everton back into their own half.
Prediction:
- Everton 1-2 Aston Villa
- With Villa's superior form, attacking options, and recent record against Everton, they will go into this match as favorites. However, Everton's resilience at home could see them score at least once.
Where to Watch the Match
The match is expected to be live-streamed on several platforms including:
- Sofascore
- Flashscore
- FuboTV
Conclusion
Coming into Everton vs Aston Villa on January 15, 2025, one can expect a great battle. While Aston Villa might have the edge over their opponents given the current form, Everton will seek to make it a difficult outing for their visitors. Will Everton finally turn their fortunes around at Goodison Park, or will Aston Villa continue their push for European glory?
Stay tuned to catch more news and match previews of the Premier League season. Also, catch all our other Premier League predictions and head-to-head stats for all the adrenaline-pumping action!