Liverpool have taken a significant step towards securing Champions League football for next season after a dramatic last-minute winner against Everton in the Merseyside Derby. Virgil van Dijk's header in the 100th minute gave Arne Slot's side all three points, moving them closer to a top-five finish.
With five games remaining, Liverpool need nine points to guarantee Champions League qualification, though that total may not be required as Chelsea continue to drop points. The gap between Liverpool and Chelsea now stands at five points, with the Blues in sixth place.
The match at the Hill Dickinson Stadium saw Mohamed Salah open the scoring in the first half after a defence-splitting pass from Cody Gakpo. Everton equalised through Beto early in the second half, with Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili injured during the goal, leading to Freddie Woodman making his Premier League debut.
Van Dijk's late winner from Dominik Szoboszlai's corner secured the victory, lifting Liverpool to fifth in the table. The result also kept them within three points of Aston Villa, who remain above them after a late win over Sunderland.
Liverpool could secure a Champions League spot before their upcoming clash with Aston Villa if they win their next three matches against Crystal Palace, Manchester United and Chelsea.
