Here it is—the final home game of the 2025-26 Premier League season, and it couldn't be more perfectly set.
This time last year, Everton were preparing for an emotional farewell to Goodison Park. Now, 364 days later, they welcome Sunderland to the Hill Dickinson Stadium with everything still to play for.
Last season, a win against Southampton was needed to give Goodison a proper send-off. This year? The stakes are even higher. Everton must beat Sunderland to keep their season alive heading into the final matchday.
Sunderland arrive in strong form, coming off a gritty 0-0 draw with Manchester United at home. But don't let the scoreline fool you—the Black Cats were the better side. United managed just one shot on target, a late stoppage-time effort from Matheus Cunha that was calmly saved by Robin Roefs. For most of the match, Sunderland were in complete control, with Brian Brobbey causing constant problems. They just couldn't find the finishing touch.
That result leaves Sunderland just one point behind Everton in the table. It's been a remarkable first season back in the top flight for the Black Cats, whose summer transfer business was nothing short of excellent. A potential European spot is still within reach, though finishing above fierce rivals Newcastle United—currently sitting in 13th—might be the more realistic prize.
Looking at Sunderland's last six league games, it's been a mixed bag. But one constant has been Granit Xhaka, who has been nothing short of sensational all season. Many would argue he's been the Premier League's signing of the year. He scored in the reverse fixture back in November—a 1-1 draw where Everton started brightly but faded after Iliman Ndiaye's stunning opener and a missed chance from Thierno Barry.
But the real danger for Everton's defense is Brobbey. The former Ajax forward has only netted six league goals this season, but his combination of stature, strength, and speed makes him a nightmare matchup. Whether it's James Tarkowski and Michael Keane, or one of them paired with Jake O'Brien, Everton's center-backs must be on high alert. Shut down Brobbey, and you take away Sunderland's platform to build from. That could be the key to victory.