Nigerian Starlet Ademide Akarakiri Makes History as Everton Open New Stadium

Nigerian midfielder Ademide Akarakiri etched his name in Everton’s history books on Monday night by becoming the first footballer to kick a ball in a match at the club’s new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock.

Akarakiri, who joined Everton from Arsenal in the summer of 2024, started for the U18 team in a historic friendly against Wigan Athletic U18s. The match was part of the club’s first test event at the new ground, played in front of 10,000 fans.

The 16-year-old midfielder was not the only Nigerian in the squad, as goalkeeper Gospel Eze and Malik Olayiwola were also named in Everton’s team for the occasion.

Although Everton lost 2-1, Akarakiri’s involvement was a proud moment. Wigan’s Harrison Rimmer scored the first-ever goal at the stadium, while Everton’s Ray Robert netted a late consolation for the young Toffees.

Akarakiri, who spent ten years at Arsenal before his move to Everton, is known for his dribbling and passing ability. He has cited Amadou Onana, Paul Pogba, and Andres Iniesta as his football idols.

This season, he has represented Everton in the U18 Premier League, FA Youth Cup, and U18 Premier League Cup, showing promise as one of the club’s exciting young talents.

Everton’s new stadium, a state-of-the-art 52,888-seat venue, marks the beginning of a new chapter for the club. After years of delays and an £800 million investment, the Toffees have finally moved closer to leaving Goodison Park.

With the official opening of Bramley-Moore Dock on the horizon, Akarakiri’s name will forever be linked to the stadium’s first-ever match—a historic moment