Liverpool claimed Merseyside bragging rights with a hard-fought victory over rivals Everton, moving ever closer to securing the Premier League title. Under the guidance of manager Arne Slot, the Reds now need just 13 points from a possible 24 to guarantee a well-deserved and record-equalling 20th top-flight triumph.
Despite being frustrated by Everton’s disciplined defensive setup, Liverpool ultimately secured the three points thanks to a moment of brilliance from Diogo Jota. The Portuguese forward had been relatively quiet for much of the match but sprang into life when he latched onto Luis Diaz’s clever backheel. Jota showcased his exceptional footwork, weaving past defenders before calmly slotting the ball home to break the deadlock.
Before the decisive goal, a moment of controversy dominated the first half, with Everton defender James Tarkowski incredibly fortunate to remain on the pitch. Tarkowski was shown only a yellow card after a sliding challenge in which he won the ball but caught Alexis Mac Allister on the knee with his studs during the follow-through. After a VAR review, the challenge was not upgraded to a red card, and while Dominik Szoboszlai curled the resulting free-kick just wide, Mohamed Salah also had a header saved by Jordan Pickford at the back post.
Everton threatened Liverpool’s defense, with Beto causing problems and having a goal ruled out for offside after outmuscling Virgil van Dijk. The striker soon found himself one-on-one with Caoimhin Kelleher but could only strike the post. Liverpool, determined to turn the game in their favor, increased the pressure in the second half. Ryan Gravenberch’s powerful shot from distance was pushed away by Pickford, but it was Jota’s clinical strike in the 56th minute that ultimately proved to be the difference, keeping Liverpool’s title challenge on track.
