Iliman Ndiaye Scores on Full Debut as Everton Secure Carabao Cup Third-Round Spot
New signing Iliman Ndiaye made an impactful full debut, scoring as Everton overcame their shaky Premier League start to defeat Doncaster and advance to the third round of the Carabao Cup.
Ndiaye, a Senegal international who joined Everton for £15 million from Marseille this summer, had previously made substitute appearances in losses to Brighton and Tottenham. However, he marked his first start for the club in style by netting Everton’s second goal in the 74th minute. After receiving the ball 35 yards from goal, Ndiaye drove forward, skillfully evaded defender Joseph Olowu, and finished calmly.
Manager Sean Dyche made six changes to the starting lineup, including full debuts for Jesper Lindstrom and Jake O’Brien, but Everton still fielded a strong side. Despite this, they struggled to break down Doncaster’s defense until the 53rd minute.
The breakthrough came when Dwight McNeil celebrated after a shot by Tim Iroegbunam, taken from the edge of the box, deflected off his shin and found the back of the net.
Earlier, Ndiaye had created Everton’s best first-half chance, using his strength to set up James Garner, whose shot was blocked. In the second half, Ndiaye delivered a superb cross that went unconverted by striker Beto, who eventually scored Everton’s third goal in the 84th minute, sealing the victory and boosting morale at Goodison Park.
Doncaster, a League Two side, put up a strong fight, with their best opportunity falling to Jack Senior in the first half, but his effort was saved by Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
Dyche, whose team sits at the bottom of the Premier League with no goals scored and seven conceded in two matches, described the win as a “mini step forward.” He added, “We want all of the group to set high standards. It’s not just about the new players; it’s about every player. Can they keep progressing for the next challenge? That’s something we’ve had to do repeatedly—face challenges and rise to them, and there’s another one ahead now.”
