Everton vs Leeds United on 26 January
The Premier League will witness a thrilling mid-table clash between Everton and Leeds United on January 26, 2026, at Goodison Park. Both teams are desperately seeking points to either escape relegation fears or climb higher in the standings. The stakes are undeniably high, as each side looks to assert its dominance in what is expected to be an intense tactical battle. While the weather conditions are expected to be cold but dry, there is little doubt that this fixture will heat up on the field as both clubs fight for survival and respect in the top flight.
Everton: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Everton's recent form has been a source of concern for manager Sean Dyche, as they have struggled to find consistency. The Toffees have only secured one win in their last five matches, with two losses and two draws. Dyche’s side has been prone to defensive lapses, while their attack has lacked fluidity. In their most recent game, a 2-2 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers, Everton showed glimpses of resilience, yet their inability to close out the game exposed weaknesses in concentration and match management.
Tactically, Everton tends to play a 4-4-2 formation, focusing on a solid defensive structure, quick transitions, and direct balls to their strikers. The pressing intensity varies, but they often rely on the counter-attack to exploit spaces left by opposing teams. With the injury of Dominic Calvert-Lewin sidelining their target man, Everton’s attack has lacked its focal point, making it harder to break down compact defenses.
Key player: James Tarkowski has been the defensive rock, playing a crucial role in aerial duels and defensive leadership. However, Everton’s lack of creativity in the middle of the park is glaring, as they have struggled to maintain possession in the final third, averaging only 43.2% in their last five games. With key injuries in the forward line and no real spark in attack, Dyche will need to shift to a more dynamic approach if Everton is to be successful.
Leeds United: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Leeds United, under the leadership of their new manager, are going through a transitional phase, but their performances have shown positive signs in recent weeks. In their last five matches, they have secured two wins, one draw, and two losses. However, Leeds have struggled with consistency, often losing focus in key moments, which has cost them precious points. In their last outing, a 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace, their inability to finish chances and sloppy defending once again came to the fore.
Leeds typically sets up in a 4-3-3 formation, with high pressing and an emphasis on quick build-up play. They play a dynamic brand of football, with their wingers cutting inside and the midfielders looking to deliver incisive through balls. Their high pressing game forces opponents to make quick decisions, which creates turnovers and counter-attacking opportunities. Leeds’ problem lies in their defensive fragility, particularly when they face teams that can break their press and exploit space in behind.
Key player: Jack Harrison, who has been instrumental in their attacking plays, creating chances with his pace and flair on the left wing. Leeds also rely heavily on their midfield dynamo, Tyler Adams, who breaks up opposition attacks and helps control the tempo of the game. However, injuries to key players like Rodrigo, their top scorer, will severely impact their attacking potency. Leeds’ pressing game will need to be at its best, and the midfield battle will be key in determining whether they can stifle Everton’s transitions.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
In their recent encounters, Everton and Leeds United have proven to be evenly matched, with both sides winning two of the last five meetings. The most recent clash was in September 2025, where Leeds managed a 2-1 victory at Elland Road, showcasing their ability to exploit Everton’s defensive weaknesses. Historically, matches between these two teams have been competitive, with Everton enjoying a slightly better record overall, especially at Goodison Park. However, Leeds have always brought an aggressive intensity to this fixture, and they will look to continue that trend as they aim to take all three points from a struggling Everton side.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The main tactical battle will be in midfield, where Everton’s inability to control the ball in advanced areas could be exploited by Leeds’ high pressing. The combination of Tyler Adams' disruptiveness and the pace of Leeds’ wingers will put Everton's defense under pressure, and how well they handle the ball in transition will be pivotal. The full-backs, particularly Leeds' Luke Ayling and Everton's Vitalii Mykolenko, will have crucial roles to play in both attacking and defending down the wings. The battle between Leeds' wingers and Everton’s full-backs will be a key area where the match could be won or lost.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Given Everton’s recent struggles and Leeds’ high-energy, pressing style, this game is likely to see a lot of midfield and wide play battles. Leeds will dominate possession, looking to break down Everton’s defensive lines with quick passes and direct running. Everton will likely sit deep, relying on counter-attacks and set-pieces to create chances. With both teams lacking a consistent cutting edge in front of goal, expect a closely contested game that could end in a 1-1 draw. However, Leeds' intensity and pressing may give them the edge in a high-stakes encounter. The match will likely see both teams struggling to assert themselves offensively, but the difference might come down to which side can exploit set-piece opportunities or individual errors in defense.
Final Thoughts
Everton’s need for points is just as urgent as Leeds’, but both teams will struggle to break the deadlock in what could be a nervy encounter. The midfield battle, defensive errors, and the ability to transition quickly will determine who walks away victorious. Can Leeds maintain their pressing intensity and exploit Everton's fragility in possession? Or will Everton’s experience in tight matches prove crucial? This game will provide clarity on which team can escape the bottom half of the table and build momentum heading into the latter part of the season.
