Five years had passed since Everton’s previous opening-game Premier League win before the 2026–27 season.
Everton began the campaign with a 2–0 victory over Crystal Palace at Hill Dickinson Stadium on 22 August 2026. The result ended a five-year wait for an opening Premier League match victory, making it a particularly positive start for the Toffees.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall scored Everton’s first goal, and Thierno Barry added the second after half-time. The win was also Everton’s first victory in eight top-flight matches, extending the significance of the result beyond the opening weekend.
The match was played at Hill Dickinson Stadium, Everton’s new home. The stadium hosted the club’s first Premier League season at the venue, while 19-year-old midfielder Harrison Armstrong was praised for his performance.