Preview & Prediction: Everton vs Brighton & Hove Albion

Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM ET (15:00 UK)
Venue: Goodison Park, Liverpool
Broadcast Information: Sky Sports (UK), Peacock (US)

Everton welcome Brighton & Hove Albion to Goodison Park for a Matchweek 2 clash that promises a clash of styles in the 2025-26 Premier League season. Sean Dyche’s Everton are desperate to rebound after a 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest, where their defensive resilience was let down by a lack of attacking creativity. Fabian Hürzeler’s Brighton, fresh off a 2-1 victory over Fulham, displayed their fluid, possession-based approach, with Kaoru Mitoma and João Pedro leading the charge. This matchup pits Everton’s physical, direct play against Brighton’s technical flair, with key battles in midfield and on the wings likely to define the contest. Goodison’s fervent atmosphere will push Everton to ignite their campaign, while Brighton aim to build on their strong start. Expect a hard-fought, competitive game with moments of quality deciding the outcome.

Insights

• Everton’s 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest exposed their struggle to create chances, with only three shots on target. They won nine of 19 home games in 2024-25.
• Brighton’s 2-1 win over Fulham highlighted their attacking cohesion, with Mitoma scoring and Pedro assisting. They won four of their last seven away games last season.
• Everton’s 4-4-2 setup emphasizes physicality, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin as the focal point and James Garner driving midfield. Brighton’s 4-2-3-1 prioritizes possession, with Billy Gilmour dictating play.
• Calvert-Lewin vs. Brighton’s Lewis Dunk will be a key battle, as Calvert-Lewin’s aerial threat meets Dunk’s defensive nous.
• Everton won their last home game against Brighton 1-0 in 2024-25, but Brighton have won three of the last six Premier League meetings.
• A win could boost Everton’s early-season confidence, while Brighton eye a top-half push.
• Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucouré is doubtful with a hamstring strain, while Brighton’s Evan Ferguson is pushing for a start.
• Goodison’s passionate fans will create a hostile environment, with Brighton’s supporters aiming to counter their energy.

Match Forecasts

• Dominic Calvert-Lewin could exploit Brighton’s high defensive line with his physicality, potentially scoring from crosses or set pieces.
• Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma, with his pace and dribbling, may trouble Everton’s full-backs, particularly if they push forward.
• Everton’s set-piece prowess, with six goals from corners in 2024-25, could target Brighton’s average aerial defending.
• Substitutes like Everton’s Beto or Brighton’s Georginio Rutter could shift momentum late with their energy and flair.
• Brighton’s possession-based approach may control midfield, but Everton’s physicality could disrupt their rhythm.
• Expect a cautious first half with Everton absorbing pressure, followed by an open second half as both teams chase a result.
• If level late, Everton’s home crowd could inspire a winner, while Brighton’s quick transitions make them dangerous on the counter.

Match Facts

• Everton have won four of 12 Premier League matches against Brighton, with four draws and four 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 fortress.
• Referee Simon Hooper, officiating this match, averaged 3.7 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.
• Dominic Calvert-Lewin is two goals shy of 50 Premier League goals for Everton.