Football

Match Pack: Everton vs Wolverhampton Wanderers

Saturday, August 30, 2025 Time: 10:00 AM ET (15:00 UK) Venue: Goodison Park, Liverpool Broadcast Information: Sky Sports (UK), Peacock (US)

Everton face Wolverhampton Wanderers at Goodison Park in a Matchweek 3 clash that promises grit and determination in the 2025-26 Premier League season. Sean Dyche’s Everton, after a 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest and a draw against Brighton, are desperate to ignite their campaign, relying on Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s physicality and James Garner’s midfield drive. Gary O’Neil’s Wolves, stung by a 4-0 loss to Manchester City and a 1-1 draw with Bournemouth, look to Matheus Cunha and João Gomes to spark their attack. This matchup pits Everton’s direct, physical style against Wolves’ counter-attacking approach, with key battles in midfield and the penalty areas set to shape the outcome. Goodison’s passionate crowd will create a hostile atmosphere, urging Everton to secure their first win, while Wolves aim to avoid an early-season slide. Expect a hard-fought, low-scoring battle with both sides scrapping for points.

Insights

  • Everton’s mixed start (1-0 loss to Forest, draw vs. Brighton) showed defensive solidity but limited attacking output, with two shots on target against Brighton. They won nine of 19 home games in 2024-25.
  • Wolves’ 4-0 loss to City and 1-1 draw with Bournemouth exposed defensive frailties, conceding three set-piece goals this season. They won two of their last seven away games last season.
  • Everton’s 4-4-2 setup focuses on physicality, with Calvert-Lewin leading and Garner anchoring midfield. Wolves’ 3-5-2 emphasizes quick transitions, with Gomes driving forward.
  • Calvert-Lewin vs. Wolves’ Craig Dawson will be crucial, as Calvert-Lewin’s aerial threat faces Dawson’s defensive nous.
  • Everton won their last home game against Wolves 1-0 in 2024-25, but Wolves have won three of the last six Premier League meetings.
  • A win could lift Everton’s early-season morale, while Wolves need points to avoid relegation concerns.
  • Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucouré is doubtful with a hamstring issue, while Wolves’ Pedro Neto is out with an ankle injury.
  • Goodison’s fervent fans will push Everton, with Wolves’ supporters aiming to disrupt the home momentum.

Match Forecasts

  • Dominic Calvert-Lewin could exploit Wolves’ shaky backline with his physicality, potentially scoring from crosses or set pieces.
  • Matheus Cunha’s pace and dribbling may test Everton’s full-backs, especially if they push forward.
  • Everton’s set-piece prowess, with six goals from corners in 2024-25, could target Wolves’ vulnerability in defending dead balls.
  • Substitutes like Everton’s Beto or Wolves’ Pablo Sarabia could shift the game late with their energy.
  • Wolves’ counter-attacks may expose Everton’s high line, but their defensive lapses could allow Everton to dominate possession.
  • Expect a physical first half with both teams battling for control, followed by a more open second half as they chase a result.
  • If level late, Everton’s home crowd could inspire a winner, but Wolves’ quick transitions make them dangerous on the break.

Match Facts

  • Everton have won four of 10 Premier League matches against Wolves since 2011, with three draws and three losses. Their last meeting at Goodison ended 1-0 to Everton.
  • Goodison Park, capacity 39,414, saw Everton lose only six home games in 2024-25, making it a tough venue.
  • Referee Craig Pawson, officiating this match, averaged 4.1 yellow cards per game in 2024-25 and officiated Everton’s 2-0 win over Leicester last season.
  • Sky Sports will broadcast live in the UK, with coverage starting at 14:30 UK. Peacock streams the match in the US at 10:00 AM ET.
  • Liverpool’s weather forecast predicts cloudy skies, 18°C (64°F), with a 15% chance of light rain, unlikely to affect play.
  • A win would mark Everton’s 200th Premier League home victory. Wolves are chasing their 100th top-flight win since 2018.
  • Dominic Calvert-Lewin is two goals shy of 50 Premier League goals for Everton, a milestone he could reach in this match.

Harry S

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