Everton's new stadium hosts first test event as club prepares for Goodison Park farewell

Everton's new 52,888-seater stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock welcomed 10,000 fans for its first test event, an under-18 friendly against Wigan Athletic, marking a significant milestone as the club prepares to leave Goodison Park at the end of the season.

The state-of-the-art venue, which took four years to construct at an estimated cost of nearly £800 million ($1.01 billion), is also set to be a key venue for Euro 2028. Everton U-18 coach Keith Southern praised the stadium’s intense atmosphere, telling Everton TV, "Whoever's designed it has done a fantastic job because the stands are on top of you. When this is full next season, it's going to be a hell of a place to play."

During the match, Wigan’s Harrison Rimmer made history by scoring the first-ever goal at the new Everton Stadium in the 12th minute. Despite a goal from Ray Robert, Everton fell 2-1 in the exhibition match.

Meanwhile, Goodison Park—Everton’s home since 1892—hosted its final Merseyside derby last Wednesday, where David Moyes' side held league leaders Liverpool to a 2-2 draw. The iconic stadium will stage its last competitive match on May 18, when Everton face Southampton.

Following the club’s move to their new home next season, Goodison Park will be demolished, making way for a mixed-use redevelopment project featuring housing and office spaces.

SportsLigue