Everton ended a historic chapter in their long-standing history with a fitting 2-0 victory over relegated Southampton in what was their final men’s match at the iconic Goodison Park. The Premier League clash marked the last top-flight fixture to be played at the stadium after 133 years of unforgettable memories.
Ndiaye the Hero on a Special Day
Senegalese forward Iliman Ndiaye rose to the occasion, scoring twice in the first half to ensure the Toffees bid farewell in style. His sixth-minute curling effort into the bottom corner gave Everton an early lead, setting the tone for the evening. He added a second deep into first-half stoppage time (45+2), rounding goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale before calmly slotting the ball home.
While Everton’s Portuguese striker Beto had two goals ruled out for offside, the Merseysiders controlled much of the first half against a Southampton side already confirmed for Championship football next season.
Pickford Ensures a Clean Sheet
Despite a relatively quiet second half, Everton had to rely on a sharp save from Jordan Pickford late in the game to deny Cameron Archer, preserving the clean sheet and ensuring the last-ever men’s goal at Goodison came from a Toffees player.
A Grand Old Lady’s Final Bow
The result marked Everton’s 1,538th win in 2,789 games at Goodison Park across all competitions (660 draws, 591 losses). With a crowd of 39,201 fans in attendance, the atmosphere was emotional yet celebratory as the club closed the doors on one of English football’s most historic venues.
From next season, Everton will move to their new 52,888-capacity Hill Dickinson Stadium at Bramley Moore Dock. Goodison Park will continue to serve the club, becoming the new home of Everton Women.
Dominance Over the Saints
Southampton’s loss also cemented their status as the most-beaten visiting side at Goodison Park in Premier League history — an unfortunate record on an unforgettable night.
