Liverpool’s women’s team is set to open their Women’s Super League campaign with a crucial Merseyside derby against Everton at Anfield this Sunday, a fixture where they will be looking to overturn a disappointing recent record.
The home side has endured a difficult run against their local rivals, failing to secure a victory in their last seven WSL encounters and losing all five of the previous derbies held at Anfield. This is a statistic that Liverpool midfielder Marie Höbinger is determined to change.
“It’s about time we put an end to that run,” Höbinger stated. “Everton always raises their level when they face us. We are all incredibly motivated to be the ones to hand them a defeat at our home ground. There’s a strong belief within the squad that we can achieve that.”
For Everton, their past success at the stadium provides a psychological boost, but manager Brian Sorensen insists previous results are irrelevant. He acknowledged that while confidence is drawn from history, his team is focused solely on the upcoming challenge.
“That’s all in the past now,” Sorensen commented. “Both teams have new elements this season. We feel prepared and are hoping for a positive outcome, but we are fully aware it will be a demanding match.”
The summer transfer window has seen significant activity for both clubs. Everton, bolstered by new ownership, broke their transfer record to sign midfielder Ruby Mace and added three Japanese internationals to a squad that was previously stretched thin by injuries. Sorensen now faces the positive dilemma of selecting from a deeper, more competitive roster.
Liverpool also strengthened their side with several deadline-day signings, including Swedish forward Beata Olsson. For Höbinger, beginning the season at a major stadium like Anfield highlights the growth of women’s football.
“Playing in these iconic venues is incredible and really shows how the women’s game is thriving here,” she said. “To kick off our season with a derby at Anfield is the perfect scenario. It gives us a huge opportunity to start strongly and provides massive motivation to perform for our supporters.”
The match also marks the first competitive game in charge for Liverpool’s new manager, Gareth Taylor. A victory against Everton would be an ideal way for him to make a positive first impression and build momentum for the season ahead.
