Iliman Ndiaye targets home wins as Everton prepare Goodison Park farewell

Ndiaye hopes for three final victories at Goodison before Everton move to new stadium.

Everton's Iliman Ndiaye during the Premier League match between Everton FC and Arsenal FC at Goodison Park on April 5, 2025 in Liverpool, England. Photo by Copa/Getty Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Iliman Ndiaye targets home wins as Everton aim to give their historic Goodison Park a fitting farewell in the club’s final Premier League season at the iconic venue. Speaking after his crucial penalty secured a 1-1 draw against Arsenal, Ndiaye expressed his desire for Everton to win their last three home matches before relocating to Everton Stadium next season.

“Every time we play here, there are fewer and fewer chances left,” Ndiaye said in a post-match interview, reflecting on the significance of Goodison Park’s closing chapter. “We want to give everything to the supporters who are always here and witness everything. Hopefully, we can get three wins in the last three home games.”

Everton’s current home in the heart of the Merseyside community will host only three more league matches before closing its doors after more than a century of history. With fixtures against Manchester City, Ipswich Town, and Southampton still to come, the Toffees are hoping to channel both nostalgia and determination into positive results.

The atmosphere around Goodison Park has already started to shift. Fans know that every match is now part of a long goodbye, and that emotional backdrop was palpable during the 1-1 draw with Arsenal on Saturday in week 31 of the Premier League.

A vital point against Arsenal

The draw with Arsenal was not just any routine league fixture. It came against a title-chasing side that dominated much of the possession and created several chances. Yet, Everton stood firm.

Arsenal opened the scoring in the 34th minute when Leandro Trossard capitalized on a defensive lapse, slotting the ball past Jordan Pickford from a tight angle. Despite falling behind, Everton’s resolve never faded.

The turning point came just after the restart. A clumsy challenge from Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly on Jack Harrison inside the box prompted referee Darren England to point to the spot. The decision sparked debate among pundits and fans alike, but Ndiaye kept his cool. With a calm, measured strike, he sent goalkeeper David Raya the wrong way and drew Everton level.

The goal was Ndiaye’s moment of composure amid controversy. It lifted the home crowd and gave Everton a foothold in the match, allowing them to push for more in the second half.

Strong finish in sight

With the Arsenal result secured, attention now turns to the final trio of matches to be played at Goodison Park. The first test comes on April 19 when Everton host reigning champions Manchester City — a formidable opponent, but one that Goodison has witnessed the Toffees tame in the past.

Next up will be newly promoted Ipswich Town on May 3, followed by the final home match of the season against Southampton on May 18. That last game promises to be a poignant occasion for players and fans alike — a farewell to a ground that has shaped the soul of Everton for generations.

Ndiaye's words reflect the emotions running through the club at this historic time. His goal against Arsenal didn’t just earn a point — it symbolized the fighting spirit Everton will need to finish strong at home.

Goodison Park’s legacy

Since 1892, Goodison Park has been the heart of Everton Football Club. The stadium has seen legends rise, records fall, and football evolve. From the days of Dixie Dean to the present generation, it has been more than just a place to play — it has been the club’s identity.

This season, Everton have posted a respectable record at Goodison: four wins, eight draws, and four losses. That includes a fierce 2-2 draw against city rivals Liverpool on February 13, a game that had the stands rocking and reminded everyone why Goodison has long been one of the most intimidating places to visit in English football.

By contrast, their away form has been inconsistent, with just three wins on the road all season. That disparity underscores why these final home matches carry even more weight in Everton’s bid to end the campaign on a high.

A promising voice for Everton’s future

Ndiaye, who arrived at Everton with hopes of revitalizing his career, has quickly become a vital figure for Sean Dyche’s side. With his technical ability and calm presence, he has added a new dimension to Everton’s attacking options.

His willingness to shoulder responsibility, especially in pressure moments like the Arsenal penalty, shows a maturity that bodes well for Everton’s next chapter. And as the club transitions from Goodison Park to their new stadium in the Bramley-Moore Dock area, players like Ndiaye may be central to shaping the team's identity in unfamiliar surroundings.

Supporters remain the heartbeat

For fans, the move away from Goodison Park brings mixed emotions — excitement about the future, but deep sadness at leaving a place filled with memories. The final games at the stadium aren’t just about results. They’re about honoring history, paying tribute to generations of fans, and celebrating the moments that made Goodison so special.

Ndiaye’s message resonated with that sentiment. “We want to give everything to the supporters who are always here,” he said. His words echoed the feelings of every player and fan who understands what Goodison means.

As Everton prepare for life in a new home, they do so with eyes fixed on the present — on making the last games at Goodison count.

Three home matches remain. Nine points are up for grabs. Iliman Ndiaye targets home wins not just for the standings, but for the soul of a football club saying goodbye to a beloved ground.