Everton kicked off the 2025-26 Premier League season with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Leeds United on August 18, 2025, at Elland Road.
Jack Grealish, the £100 million Manchester City loanee, stole the spotlight with a goal and an assist, proving why he chose Everton.
David Moyes’ side fought back from an early deficit, delighting fans across Europe and the UK as of 02:49 PM IST today, Monday, August 25, 2025.
Match Highlights and Goals
The game started with a shock for Everton as Leeds took the lead in the 12th minute.
Gabriel Gudmundsson’s cross found Lukas Nmecha, who headed past Jordan Pickford. Everton responded quickly, with Grealish leveling the score in the 28th minute.
The England star dribbled past two defenders and fired a low shot into the corner, his first goal for the Toffees.
The turnaround came in the 67th minute when Grealish delivered a pinpoint cross for Iliman Ndiaye to head home the winner.
BBC Sport’s live coverage highlighted Everton’s 58% possession and 10 shots, showing their resilience.
Grealish’s Impact and Debut Performance
Grealish, 29, joined Everton on a season-long loan from Manchester City, wearing the iconic No. 18 shirt inspired by Wayne Rooney and Paul Gascoigne.
His debut performance silenced doubters, with four key passes and two dribbles completed.
Everton’s official site quoted him saying, “Today shows why I chose Everton—the fans, the fight, and the chance to play my way.”
Moyes praised his creativity, noting, “Jack brought the spark we needed.”
Despite limited pre-season minutes at City, Grealish’s energy lifted Everton’s attack, addressing their long-standing creativity issues.
Team News and Tactical Moves
Moyes started Grealish on the left wing, pairing him with Ndiaye and new signing Thierno Barry up top.
Jarrad Branthwaite anchored the defense alongside James Tarkowski, while Idrissa Gueye and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall controlled midfield.
Leeds, back in the Premier League, fielded debutant Gabriel Gudmundsson and rested Anton Stach, with Daniel Farke opting for a high press.
Everton’s bench featured Carlos Alcaraz and Adam Aznou, signaling squad depth.
Injuries to Seamus Coleman and Vitaliy Mykolenko forced Moyes to rely on Jake O’Brien at right-back.
Match Context and Challenges
Everton’s win marks a strong start at their new Hill Dickinson Stadium era, following a turbulent pre-season.
Grealish’s move, confirmed on August 13, came after falling out of favor at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, where he started just seven Premier League games last season.
Sky Sports reported City’s decision to loan him out stemmed from his need for regular football ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Leeds, promoted via the play-offs, aimed to build on their momentum but struggled after Nmecha’s early goal, with VAR denying them a late equalizer.
Fan Reactions on X
Fans on X erupted with excitement, one posting, “Grealish is back to his Villa best—Everton got a steal!”.
Others hailed Ndiaye’s header, with some Leeds fans lamenting missed chances.
The match aired live on Sky Sports at 12:30 PM BST (5:00 PM IST), with highlights on BBC Sport, drawing widespread attention across Europe.
What’s Next and Broader Impact
Everton face Brighton at home on August 25, where Grealish could make his full debut at the new stadium. Leeds host Newcastle on August 24, seeking their first points.
The victory boosts Moyes’ project under new owners FriedkinCo, who’ve invested heavily this summer.
Grealish’s form could reignite his England career, while Everton’s attacking trio hints at a mid-table push.
For Leeds, the loss exposes defensive frailties to address.
Stay tuned for more Premier League updates!