The Merseyside derby is back, but it’s not the lopsided affair we’ve seen in years past. This Sunday, April 19, 2026, the first-ever derby at the brand-new Hill Dickinson Stadium finds Liverpool limping into enemy territory. With Arne Slot’s men essentially out of silverware contention after their midweek exit to PSG, Everton has a golden opportunity to push for Europe—and leave their neighbors in the dust.
The Toffees: Brimming with Belief
Under the steady hand of David Moyes, Everton has become a nightmare to play against. They’ve picked up 10 points from their last five matches and are currently sitting in 8th, just five points behind Liverpool. The squad is nearly at full strength, minus Jack Grealish, and players like Beto and Iliman Ndiaye are finding their groove at exactly the right time.
Playing at the Hill Dickinson has given Everton a fresh identity. They aren’t just surviving; they are thriving. With Jarrad Branthwaite commanding the backline, they’ll be looking to replicate that 2-0 win from 2024 and prove that the power dynamic in the city is shifting.
Liverpool: A Season in Freefall?
It’s been a rough month for the Reds. Four losses in their last five outings has the “mentality monsters” looking more like a “fragile collective.” The injury list is staggering: Alisson Becker, Hugo Ekitike, and Joe Gomez are all out.
Slot is forced to rely on Giorgi Mamardashvili in goal for his first taste of this rivalry, and while Mohamed Salah is always a threat, the supporting cast looks tired. They’ve played four games in the time Everton has played one. Fatigue is real, and the Toffees will be smelling blood.
Key Matchups
• Branthwaite vs. Gakpo: If Branthwaite keeps Gakpo quiet, Liverpool has no focal point.
• Pickford vs. The Occasion: Jordan thrives on this atmosphere; expect a few big saves to fire up the home crowd.
• Beto vs. Van Dijk: Beto’s physical presence has bothered top defenders all season—can an aging Van Dijk keep up for 90 minutes?
Match Prediction: Everton 2-1 Liverpool
The momentum is all with the Blue half of Merseyside. Liverpool’s defensive gaps and lack of confidence are too big to ignore. Everton to grab a historic first derby win at their new home.
Score Prediction: 2-1 (Beto 34’, McNeil 78’ / Salah 45’)
