The FA Cup third-round match between Everton and Peterborough United on January 9, 2025, presents an intriguing scenario for both teams. Historically, Everton has demonstrated dominance over lower-league opponents in this prestigious tournament; however, their recent form raises significant concerns. With only one win in their last eleven matches and precariously positioned just above the relegation zone, the pressure on manager Sean Dyche is mounting. A loss in this fixture could potentially seal his fate as head coach .
Peterborough United on the other hand are struggling at the moment to secure results in League One. They are without a win in their last five matches losing four and drawing once against Burton in round 24. In the last match, they were moments away from a draw until Steven Fletcher stepped up to secure the winner for Wrexham. Unlike Premier League oppositions, Peterborough United had to secure a 4-3 win against Notts County in the last round to secure their place.
Everton possible starting lineup: Joao Virginia; Patterson, Keane, O'Brien, Mykolenko; Doucoure, Mangala, Armstrong; Harrison, Calvert-Lewin, Ndiaye
Peterborough United possible starting lineup: Bilokapic; Johnston, Wallin, Fernandez, Katongo, Hayes; De Havilland, Kyprianou, Collins; Mothersille, Jones
With Everton not playing for another six days, Sean Dyche can field a strong side, though some rotation is likely. João Virgínia is expected to start in goal after his appearance in the EFL Cup defeat to Southampton in October. Jake O'Brien, Michael Kaene, and Nathan Patterson may also get rare starts in defense, with Patterson looking to return to the lineup for the first time in nearly a year due to a thigh injury. In attack, Armando Broja has started the last two matches over struggling Dominic Calvert-Lewin, so it will be interesting to see who is selected this time. Tim Iroegbunam, James Garner, and Dwight McNeil remain unavailable.
In contrast, Peterborough United enters this encounter with a similar poor run of form, having lost four of their last five matches and conceding a staggering eleven goals during that stretch . Despite these challenges, Peterborough’s FA Cup performances have been relatively better; they have secured two wins and scored eight goals in the competition thus far. However, historically speaking, they have struggled against Premier League teams—winning only one out of twenty-seven encounters . This historical context may influence player morale as they face a struggling but higher-division opponent.
Given the injury crisis affecting Everton's squad—most notably among strikers like Calvert-Lewin and Broja—their predicted lineup may feature Beto as a lone striker with other key players potentially missing from action . This formation could dictate a more cautious approach from Dyche's side. Ultimately, while the prediction leans towards an Everton victory by at least two goals due to superior squad quality , uncertainties surrounding injuries complicate expectations for both teams.
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