Van Dijk's Late Heroics Secure Liverpool's Derby Win at Everton's New Stadium
The Merseyside derby saw its 248th edition at Everton's new Hill Dickinson Stadium, culminating in a dramatic finish thanks to Virgil van Dijk. The Liverpool captain scored a 100th-minute winner, sealing a 2-1 victory for his team, much to the delight of manager Arne Slot and the traveling fans. Despite Everton's strong start, including a disallowed goal from Iliman Ndiaye, it was Mohamed Salah who broke the deadlock in the 29th minute with a clinical finish, marking his ninth goal in Merseyside derbies. Everton responded with an equalizer from Beto, who slipped one past Liverpool's goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who later left the field on a stretcher due to injury. Both teams struggled to capitalize on chances until the final moments, where Liverpool's persistence paid off. A corner taken by Dominik Szoboszlai found van Dijk, who outmuscled James Tarkowski to score the decisive goal in the dying seconds of the match. Everton's substitutions, including the ineffective Thierno Barry and Tyrique George, failed to provide the necessary spark in the closing stages, allowing Liverpool to seize control. This victory not only lifted Liverpool's hopes for Champions League qualification but also added to the ongoing frustrations for Everton, who grappled with missed opportunities and injuries. As the final whistle blew, it was clear that Liverpool had once again asserted their dominance in this historic rivalry.
Source: The Guardian Sport - 2026-04-19