Goodison Park, one of the most iconic and historic football stadiums in England, is set to witness its 120th and final Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool later this Wednesday. The match holds special significance as it marks the end of an era for the storied venue, which has been Everton's home since 1892. After this season, the stadium will be demolished to make way for a new, state-of-the-art 52,888-capacity stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, located on Liverpool’s waterfront.
An emotional farewell to Goodison Park
Affectionately known as the "Grand Old Lady" by locals, Goodison Park has witnessed decades of history and unforgettable football moments. For many fans, the final derby at this legendary ground will be an emotional occasion, as it signifies the closure of a chapter in the rich history of Everton FC.
With both teams having their home grounds situated less than 1 kilometer apart, and famously separated by Stanley Park, the rivalry between the two Merseyside clubs has always been fierce and deeply rooted.
A high-stakes encounter
Wednesday's match is not only about history, but also crucial points for both teams in the Premier League. For Liverpool, a win would extend their lead over second-placed Arsenal to a comfortable nine points, reinforcing their position in the title race.
On the other hand, Everton, under the leadership of new manager David Moyes, is fighting to stay clear of the relegation zone. Since Moyes returned to the club last month, he has overseen an impressive run of three wins from his first four league games, providing hope for a turnaround in the team's fortunes.
The Decider in Merseyside derby rivalry
The rivalry between these two clubs at Goodison Park has spanned 119 encounters across all competitions, with both sides having 41 wins each on this historic ground. As this final derby approaches, the 120th meeting will ultimately serve as the decider in what has been an even contest at Goodison. Originally scheduled for December 7, this game was postponed due to stormy weather, making the rearranged fixture even more poignant.
As the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park kicks off, football fans around the world will be treated to not only a battle for vital points but also a farewell to one of the most famous stadiums in English football. With a victory up for grabs for both teams, the stakes couldn’t be higher as the "Grand Old Lady" hosts one last unforgettable encounter between Everton and Liverpool.