When the story of Goodison Park is told, it will be Iliman Ndiaye’s name that headlines its final Premier League chapter. The forward’s two goals provided a fitting farewell to the historic stadium, sealing a straightforward win for Everton over Southampton in a match where the result was largely irrelevant but the emotion immense.
This wasn’t an afternoon about the stakes or the quality of football on display. Instead, it was a chance to say goodbye to a stadium that has hosted 132 years of memories. The sun shone brightly over Goodison, and the party atmosphere made it clear this was a celebration, not a contest. Ndiaye embraced the moment, delivering a performance full of flair and clinical finishing that left fans with a final joyful memory.
The match began with a bang, as Ndiaye opened the scoring in the sixth minute. Weaving through a passive Southampton defense, he struck low into the bottom corner from the edge of the area. The eruption of blue flares and cheers showed just how much the moment meant to the Everton faithful. It was a goal worthy of the occasion.
The visitors offered little resistance, playing like a team already looking forward to the summer break. With their Premier League fate long sealed and managerial uncertainty looming, Southampton lacked energy, drive, and cohesion. Everton, by contrast, were eager to put on a show.
Beto thought he had added a second when he slotted home from a James Garner pass, but the striker had strayed offside. Moments later, he was again denied by the assistant’s flag after heading in from an Ashley Young cross. Despite these near misses, the home side remained dominant.
Ndiaye struck again just before halftime. Latching onto a clever through ball from Dwight McNeil, he danced past Aaron Ramsdale with quick footwork and tapped into an empty net. Though the goal was initially checked by VAR, it was upheld, sparking renewed celebrations in the stands.
With the result effectively decided by the break, the second half drifted. The game slowed, fans became more reflective, and the focus turned to saying farewell. A number of players were given moments to soak in the atmosphere, including Abdoulaye Doucouré, who was substituted in the 65th minute. His contract is one of 13 set to expire soon, and no new terms have yet been offered. Michael Keane, also out of contract, replaced an injured Jarrad Branthwaite, likely making his final Goodison appearance as well.
Though this marked the end of men’s Premier League football at the venue, Goodison Park will continue to host Everton Women next season. Meanwhile, the men’s team will move on to the Hill Dickinson Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, entering a new era with optimism. Ndiaye, with his style and impact, seems destined to play a key role in this next chapter.
The game may not have been a thriller, but it was everything it needed to be: a tribute, a farewell, and a celebration. Goodison Park’s final act was marked by sunshine, emotion, and a forward who gave the crowd one last reason to cheer.
