Liverpool needed a response, and they found one in the Merseyside derby.
After two cup exits and a frustrating few weeks, Arne Slot’s side battled to a hard-fought 1-0 win over Everton to stay on course for the Premier League title.
They were not at their free-flowing best, but this victory was about resilience. Diogo Jota’s moment of brilliance settled the game, but it was Liverpool’s determination that shone through.
The match started with controversy. James Tarkowski was lucky to stay on the pitch after a reckless challenge on Alexis Mac Allister.
The Everton captain caught the midfielder high on the leg, yet VAR chose not to intervene. Liverpool’s frustration grew, and their first-half dominance in possession did not translate into clear-cut chances.
Everton were the more dangerous side in transition. Beto caused endless problems for Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, using his physicality to disrupt Liverpool’s backline. He had the ball in the net, but an offside flag denied him. Minutes later, he beat Caoimhin Kelleher but struck the post. Liverpool were living dangerously.
Slot’s team needed a spark, and they found it after the break. Ryan Gravenberch took control in midfield, driving the team forward. The breakthrough finally came when Luis Diaz teed up Jota, who weaved through Everton’s defence before finishing calmly beyond Jordan Pickford.
The visitors protested for offside in the build-up, but their appeals fell on deaf ears. Everton had no response. They made late changes to chase an equaliser, but Liverpool stood firm. Díaz had a chance to double the lead, while Darwin Núñez won a penalty that was ultimately ruled out due to an earlier foul.
This was not a vintage performance, but it was exactly what Liverpool needed. They withstood pressure, found a decisive moment and got the job done.
With 13 points now needed from their final eight games, the finish line is in sight. Liverpool’s title charge is very much alive.
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