Fulham vs Everton prediction : lineups, betting odds, tips and match preview
As the Premier League season intensifies, all eyes turn to Craven Cottage for a critical clash between Fulham and Everton this Sunday. This matchup holds significant implications for both clubs’ campaigns, with the hosts looking to bounce back from recent mixed results and the visitors aiming to build momentum. Set for May 5th at the iconic riverside stadium, this fixture promises tactical intrigue and potential betting value for those following the Premier League closely.
Match details and form guide
This Premier League encounter kicks off at 14:00 BST on Sunday at the 25,700-capacity Craven Cottage. Liverpool’s dominant form has been the story of the season, with the Reds losing just once in their title-chasing campaign. The visitors need just 11 more points to secure the Premier League crown after their impressive 1-0 win over Everton in their most recent home fixture.
Fulham’s home form at Craven Cottage has been relatively strong this season with just two defeats, though they’ve shown inconsistency in recent weeks. Their last five league matches tell a story of unpredictability: losses to Arsenal (1-2) and Crystal Palace (0-2) at home, coupled with a convincing 2-0 victory over Tottenham and a 2-1 away win at Wolves. This pattern of alternating wins and losses makes them difficult to predict against Liverpool’s formidable away record.
Looking at Liverpool’s recent results, the visitors have been in exceptional form with four consecutive wins, including impressive victories against Southampton (3-1), Newcastle (2-0), and Manchester City (2-0). Their only slight stumble came in a 2-2 draw with Aston Villa, showcasing their dominance in Premier League betting markets this season.
Head-to-head record and team news
Recent head-to-head encounters
Liverpool has historically dominated this fixture with 21 wins in 35 matches, though Fulham have managed to secure 7 victories, with 5 of those coming at home. Their most recent meeting ended in a competitive 2-2 draw, where Liverpool played with ten men following Robertson’s red card. Prior encounters show Liverpool’s attacking prowess, including a 3-1 win at Craven Cottage and a thrilling 4-3 victory at Anfield last season.
| Date | Result | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| December 2024 | Liverpool 2-2 Fulham | Premier League |
| April 2024 | Fulham 1-3 Liverpool | Premier League |
| December 2023 | Liverpool 4-3 Fulham | Premier League |
Injury and suspension report
Fulham’s team selection will be impacted by several injuries, with Reiss Nelson (hamstring), Kenny Tete (knee), and Harry Wilson (knee) all sidelined for this fixture. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s concerns include potential absence of first-choice goalkeeper Alisson who remains in concussion protocol, while defensive stalwart Trent Alexander-Arnold continues his ankle rehabilitation.
- Fulham injuries: Nelson, Tete, Wilson
- Liverpool injuries: Alisson (doubtful), Bradley (doubtful), Gomez, Morton, Alexander-Arnold
Predicted lineups and tactical analysis
Fulham’s expected formation
Marco Silva is likely to deploy his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation with Bernd Leno between the posts. The defense should feature Castagne, Andersen, and Robinson, with either Diop or Bassey completing the backline. In midfield, Berge and returning Sasa Lukic will aim to disrupt Liverpool’s attacking flow, while Iwobi, Smith Rowe (or Pereira), and Willian support Raúl Jiménez up front.
- Expected XI: Leno; Castagne, Andersen, Diop, Robinson; Berge, Lukic; Iwobi, Smith Rowe, Willian; Jiménez
Liverpool’s expected setup
Jürgen Klopp’s title-chasing side will likely utilize their standard 4-3-3 system, with Kelleher potentially starting if Alisson isn’t cleared. Curtis Jones may fill in at right back due to injuries, with Konate, van Dijk and Robertson completing the defensive unit. The midfield trio of Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Gravenberch will support an attack featuring Salah and potential attacking options Jota, Díaz or Gakpo.
- Expected XI: Kelleher; Jones, Konate, van Dijk, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Salah, Jota, Díaz
Key tactical battles
The clash between Raúl Jiménez and Virgil van Dijk will be crucial, as Fulham’s Mexican striker tests himself against one of the league’s premier defenders. Another fascinating duel will occur on the flanks where Mohamed Salah aims to extend his impressive record of contributing multiple goals in consecutive away fixtures against Antonee Robinson.
- Jiménez vs van Dijk: Physical battle that could determine Fulham’s attacking success
- Salah vs Robinson: Liverpool’s Egyptian star targeting more goal contributions
- Mac Allister vs Pereira: Midfield control battle crucial for game tempo
Betting odds and expert predictions
Match result odds
Liverpool enter as clear favorites with most bookmakers, reflecting their dominance in the Premier League this season. Fulham’s inconsistent form has them as significant underdogs, though their relatively strong home record offers some value for those considering a draw or home win bet.
- Liverpool win: Strong favorite status reflects their title-challenging form
- Draw: Offers value considering the previous 2-2 result this season
Value betting opportunities
The goals market presents interesting options given Liverpool have scored 100 goals against Fulham in all competitions. The Mohamed Salah anytime scorer market has particular value considering his current scoring streak, while the under 2.5 goals market deserves consideration due to Fulham’s typically solid defensive setup at Craven Cottage. For those seeking broader Premier League betting insights, comparing this fixture with other weekend matches could reveal pattern-based value.
