Watkins to Fire? Everton’s Defence Ready for Villa’s Attack

Everton have enjoyed a solid start to the season, picking up two wins from three games, and will be looking to maintain their momentum at home. Aston Villa, by contrast, are struggling to find form, having failed to win in their last three matches. The clash at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday, 13 September 2025, at 15:00 BST promises an intriguing battle between Everton’s growing confidence and Villa’s search for answers.

Recent Form
Everton have been impressive in recent outings, winning 3-2 away at Wolves and 2-0 against Brighton. Their only setback was a narrow 0-1 loss at Leeds, but they have shown they can score and defend in equal measure. Home advantage should see them dominate possession and create chances, with Grealish and Beto expected to lead the attack.

Aston Villa, meanwhile, have struggled to hit form. Heavy losses to Crystal Palace (0-3) and Brentford (0-1) have exposed defensive frailties, and a goalless draw against Newcastle highlighted their lack of cutting edge. Watkins and McGinn will need to step up if Villa are to challenge Everton at Goodison Park.

Head-to-Head History
Everton and Aston Villa have had competitive fixtures in recent years. Since Villa’s promotion in 2019, Everton have not lost to them in the Premier League at home, and the H2H record slightly favors Villa historically, with some high-scoring encounters like Villa’s 4-0 triumph in 2023. Recent results show both sides capable of surprises, but Everton’s current form gives them the edge.

Team News & Injury Report
Everton have doubts over Adam Anzou and Jarrad Branthwaite, while the rest of the squad is available. Villa will be without Boubacar Kamara, with Amadou Onana, Andrés García, and Ross Barkley doubtful. Watkins and McGinn are expected to lead Villa’s attacking efforts.

Lineups & Tactical Setup
Everton (4-2-3-1): Pickford – Keane, Tarkowski, O’Brien, Mykolenko – Garner, Gueye – Grealish, Dewsbury-Hall, Ndiaye – Beto
Aston Villa (4-2-3-1): Bizot – Cash, Konsa, Mings, Maatsen – McGinn, Tielemans – Malen, Rogers, Guessand – Watkins

Everton are likely to control the midfield with Garner and Gueye, while Grealish and Ndiaye provide creativity and width. Villa will rely on McGinn and Tielemans to dictate play and feed Watkins, but they may struggle to break Everton’s compact defensive shape.

Key Battles & Players to Watch

• Jack Grealish vs Matty Cash: Everton’s playmaker could expose Villa’s left flank with pace and trickery.
  
• Beto vs Ezri Konsa: Physicality and movement up front may test Villa’s central defence.
  
• James Garner (Everton): Midfield work rate could be decisive in controlling the tempo.
  
• Ollie Watkins (Villa): Needs to find space and finish chances to spark a Villa revival.
  

Pre-Match Snapshot

• Fixture: Everton vs Aston Villa
  
• Date & Time: Saturday, 13 September 2025, 15:00 BST
  
• Venue: Hill Dickinson Stadium
  
• League Positions: Everton – 5th, Aston Villa – 17th

Prediction
Everton’s solid form and home advantage make them favorites to edge this contest. Expect a tight 2-1 scoreline, with Grealish and Beto likely to make the difference, while Villa may threaten on the break through Watkins.