Szoboszlai Savours Liverpool's Dramatic Last-Gasp Derby Triumph
Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has revealed that securing a dramatic last-minute victory in the Merseyside derby against Everton was far more satisfying than a straightforward win would have been. The Hungarian international's comments come after a pulsating encounter at Hill Dickinson Stadium, where captain Virgil van Dijk headed home the decisive goal in the 100th minute of play.
A Thrilling Conclusion to a Tense Encounter
The match saw Liverpool take an early lead through Mohamed Salah's first-half strike, only for Everton's Beto to equalise shortly after the interval. The game was marred by significant injury delays, including a concerning incident that saw Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili stretchered off, alongside an injury to goalscorer Beto. These stoppages contributed to an extraordinary eleven minutes of added time, during which Van Dijk rose to meet a late corner and secure all three points for Arne Slot's side.
"I'd rather win it like this than 3-0 or something, you know," Szoboszlai stated emphatically. "This is more enjoyable to watch I think for the fans for both sides, actually. At the end, maybe they (Everton) were the unlucky ones but we are happy to take the three points."
Emotional Victory Boosts Champions League Hopes
The hard-fought victory carries significant implications for Liverpool's season, substantially strengthening their pursuit of Champions League qualification. The win opens a seven-point gap over sixth-placed Chelsea with just five matches remaining, making elite European competition increasingly probable. This comes ahead of a summer transfer window expected to feature considerable spending and the confirmed departures of key players Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson.
Despite the euphoria surrounding the dramatic win, Szoboszlai urged his teammates to maintain focus. "A win always changes the mood but we have to stay on the floor and keep working hard every day," the Hungary captain cautioned. "We have to keep fighting for the Champions League spots and it is going to be hard games ahead of us."
Contract Situation and Future Focus
Szoboszlai also addressed ongoing speculation regarding his contract situation at Liverpool, maintaining a characteristically relaxed approach. "There has been no real progression, so I cannot say anything new about my contract situation," he explained. "We have a lot of games to go and I am focusing on that. Of course I see myself here in the long term but, as I say, it is not really in my hands any more. I love being here, as I said many times. I'm completely relaxed."
The midfielder outlined his immediate priorities, stating: "We have five games to go, then I am going to rest – a big one – after my international break. Then we will see." His comments reflect a player fully committed to Liverpool's remaining challenges while acknowledging the broader context of his future at the club.
Reflecting on the emotional impact of the victory, Szoboszlai added: "It felt amazing. To win a derby like this in the last second, we couldn't ask for more. We were happy for each other to get the three points but also for the fans, because we know what it means for them." This sentiment underscores the significance of the result for both players and supporters alike in one of English football's most historic rivalries.
