In a pulsating Merseyside Derby that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Liverpool staged a magnificent second-half performance to overcome a resilient Everton side 2-0 at Anfield. The victory extends Liverpool's impressive home record against their city rivals to an incredible 14 years without defeat.
The first half proved to be a frustrating affair for the Reds, who struggled to break down Everton's organised defensive structure. The Toffees, under Sean Dyche's tactical guidance, effectively limited Liverpool's attacking threats and created several promising opportunities of their own, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin proving particularly dangerous.
Núñez Breaks the Deadlock
The game's turning point arrived in the 75th minute when Liverpool's persistence finally paid off. Substitute Luis Díaz made an immediate impact, earning a crucial penalty after being brought down in the area by Ashley Young. Darwin Núñez, showing immense composure, stepped up and converted from the spot, sending Jordan Pickford the wrong way and sending the Kop into raptures.
Salah Seals the Derby
As Everton pushed forward in search of an equaliser, Liverpool capitalised on the counter-attack in stoppage time. Mohamed Salah, who had been kept relatively quiet for much of the match, found himself through on goal and made no mistake, slotting home calmly to secure all three points and ignite wild celebrations among the home supporters.
The result provides a significant boost to Liverpool's Premier League title aspirations, keeping them level on points with leaders Tottenham Hotspur. For Everton, it's another bitter defeat in a fixture that continues to frustrate, leaving them hovering just above the relegation zone.
Jurgen Klopp will be particularly pleased with his team's character and resilience after a challenging first half, while Sean Dyche will rue missed opportunities that could have changed the complexion of this fiercely contested derby match.
