Everton and Stoke City draw 2-2 in preseason friendly

Everton continued their preseason schedule with a 2-2 draw against Championship side Stoke City in a friendly at the bet365 Stadium on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. The match served as a final tune-up for both clubs ahead of their respective competitive campaigns.

The Toffees, under manager David Moyes, maintained their unbeaten preseason run but were unable to keep a third consecutive clean sheet. Stoke, managed by Mark Robins, provided a robust test in their penultimate friendly before their competitive season begins. The Potters are preparing for an EFL Cup first-round tie against Oldham Athletic on August 8, while Everton's Premier League opener is against Crystal Palace on August 22.

Everton's preparations have included a 4-0 victory over Dundee and a goalless draw with Bolton Wanderers. New signing Hayden Hackney, a midfielder acquired from Middlesbrough, was in line to make his first appearance for the club after recovering from a minor knock. Fellow midfielder James Garner was unavailable, however, as he recovers from groin surgery in a race to be fit for the league start. Stoke, aiming to improve on a 17th-place finish last Championship season, entered the match after a...