Everton vs Brighton Prediction, Preview, News, Odds: 24/8/2025

Everton’s fortunes last season were a tale of two halves. Struggling badly until mid-campaign, the club found stability when David Moyes returned to the dugout, rekindling memories of his successful first spell as manager between 2002 and 2013. Under his guidance, the Toffees rallied impressively and climbed to 13th in the Premier League, finishing a safe 23 points clear of relegation danger.

For this season, survival remains the top priority, though the second-half surge of last year suggests Everton may be capable of avoiding the same level of anxiety. However, their summer preparation raised concerns. Across six friendlies, they failed to register a single win, losing four—including a 0-1 defeat to Roma after drawing 2-2 with Manchester United. That sluggish form carried into the new campaign, where they opened with a disappointing 1-0 loss to newly promoted Leeds United.

Brighton’s Steady Rise Continues

In contrast, Brighton have been on an upward curve over recent seasons, establishing themselves as one of the league’s most progressive sides. Even after saying farewell to tactical mastermind Roberto De Zerbi last summer, the Seagulls kept their momentum under new boss Fabian Hürzeler, finishing 8th in the Premier League. While they narrowly missed out on European qualification by just four points, their attacking football and consistency remain impressive.

Brighton’s pre-season form was particularly encouraging: four wins against Stoke City, Las Palmas, and Wolfsburg (twice), alongside a draw with Southampton. They carried that confidence into their Premier League opener, only to be denied at the last moment in a 1-1 draw with Fulham. This season, their goal is clear—secure another European place in a fiercely competitive league.

Key Battles and Tactical Outlook

Despite Brighton’s technical superiority, Everton will not be easy to break down, especially at Goodison Park. Moyes, alongside Sean Dyche’s defensive imprint still visible from last year, will likely set up his side in a compact, physical shape, relying on grit and set pieces to unsettle their opponents. The return of Amadou Onana provides energy in midfield, while a start for Beto could freshen up the attack alongside Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Brighton, meanwhile, will look to stretch Everton’s back line with the creativity of Kaoru Mitoma and the precision of their fluid attacking rotations. Everton defenders James Tarkowski and Michael Keane will have to remain disciplined, as any lapse could be punished by Brighton’s relentless pressing and quick transitions.

Prediction

This matchup presents a contrast in styles: Everton’s experience and defensive grit against Brighton’s flair and forward-thinking approach. While Everton may thrive off the home crowd and push aggressively for redemption after their poor start, Brighton’s balance and attacking quality suggest they have the edge.

Expect a hard-fought contest, with both teams creating chances, but Brighton’s sharpness in the final third could make the difference.

Prediction: Everton 1:2 Brighton