By Obaloluwa Joshua, LAGOS
Liverpool snatched a dramatic late victory over Everton in a pulsating Merseyside derby, with Virgil van Dijk’s stoppage-time header sealing a 2–1 win.
The game began at a high tempo, typical of the rivalry, with both sides pressing aggressively and contesting every ball.
Liverpool gradually asserted control in possession, and their pressure paid off midway through the first half.
Mohamed Salah finished clinically after a quick attacking move, giving the visitors a deserved lead.
Everton responded with intensity after the break.
Driven by the home crowd, they pushed Liverpool deeper and were rewarded when Beto capitalised on a defensive lapse to fire in the equaliser.
The goal shifted momentum firmly in Everton’s favour, and for a spell, Liverpool struggled to regain control.
The match grew increasingly chaotic in the closing stages, with heavy challenges, stoppages, and visible fatigue on both sides.
Liverpool were also dealt a setback with a goalkeeper injury, forcing an unexpected reshuffle that added to the tension.
Just as the contest seemed destined to end level, Liverpool struck decisively.
Deep into stoppage time—around the 100th minute—Van Dijk rose highest from a set-piece and powered a header past the Everton goalkeeper, silencing the home crowd and sparking wild celebrations among the away fans.
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