Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
Liverpool once again came away with a win when the match looked to be heading for a draw. This time Atlético Madrid were aggrieved after a 3:2 outcome in the opening round of the UEFA Champions League. Next up for the team are the Merseyside derby against Everton, who have started the season very well.
Liverpool
Liverpool are more than just efficient; they have a clinical edge late on. Atlético Madrid became the fifth opponent the team have beaten with a decisive goal after the 80th minute. The same befell Burnley in the English Premier League last weekend, 1:0 settled in the 95th minute. Concerns about the high-profile signings are, by and large, being borne out: they drift out of matches, but the squad’s proven core remains. That core delivered the win against Atlético Madrid: Andrew Robertson, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk.
Everton
At the club, the new signings are making a clear impact, especially Jack Grealish. He was rightly named English Premier League Player of the Month for August. The midfielder provided two assists in the wins over Brighton & Hove Albion (2:0) and Wolverhampton Wanderers (3:2), but after the international break he could not influence the outcome against Aston Villa (0:0). The team were proactive going forward, posting 2.08 xG, yet the biggest chances fell to Norberto Bercique Gomes Betuncal (0.97 xG) and were passed up.
Liverpool vs Everton Prediction
Such wastefulness is risky against Liverpool. If Everton continue in that vein, the hosts may not need to find a late winner. We are backing Liverpool -1 on the handicap.
