Liverpool claimed a dramatic late victory over Everton in a thrilling Merseyside derby, as Virgil van Dijk struck in the 100th minute to boost the Reds’ hopes of securing Champions League qualification.
In the first derby held at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, Everton thought they had made the perfect start when Iliman Ndiaye found the net, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside in the build-up. Liverpool quickly capitalised, as Mohamed Salah struck just moments later to put the visitors ahead.
Everton responded strongly after the break and deservedly levelled through Beto, who slid in to convert Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s cross. Liverpool were then dealt a blow when goalkeeper Giorgio Mamardashvili was forced off injured, leading to an unexpected appearance from third-choice keeper Freddie Woodman.
As the match edged towards a draw, substitute Rio Ngumoha came close to winning it for Liverpool but could not convert. However, in the final moments of 11 minutes of added time, Van Dijk rose highest to meet a corner and powered home a decisive header, sealing a famous late win for the Reds in a thrilling derby encounter.