Virgil van Dijk scored a 100th-minute header to give Liverpool a 2-1 win over Everton at Everton’s new Hill Dickinson Stadium on April 20, 2026.
The goal secured Liverpool’s sixth Premier League injury-time winner against Everton and widened their lead over sixth-placed Chelsea to seven points in the race for Champions League qualification.
Liverpool had taken the lead through Mohamed Salah early in the match but conceded an equaliser before Van Dijk’s late header from Dominik Szoboszlai’s corner.
Everton manager David Moyes claimed his team should have been awarded a first-half penalty for a challenge by Curtis Jones on Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, though the referee did not award the spot-kick.
Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili was taken to hospital with a knee wound after colliding with Everton’s Beto, while backup goalkeeper Freddie Woodman came on and was not seriously tested before the winning goal.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot praised his team’s mental resilience after a demanding schedule, noting they had played five games in 15 days with a depleted squad and still secured the win.
Slot highlighted the contributions of Van Dijk and Salah, crediting their experience for delivering in crucial moments, while also acknowledging the role of squad players like Woodman who support the team behind the scenes.
The result leaves Liverpool in a strong position to secure Champions League football for next season, though questions remain about the team’s long-term identity and defensive structure under Slot.
How the late goal shifted momentum in Liverpool’s favour
Liverpool dominated the first half and believed they were in control even after conceding, with Andy Robertson noting it was only a matter of time before they scored again.
For more on this story, see Virgil van Dijk scores late header to secure Liverpool derby win at Everton’s new stadium.
The team’s persistence paid off when they earned a set-piece late in the game and Van Dijk’s header from Szoboszlai’s corner proved decisive.
Robertson emphasized the importance of having experienced defenders like Van Dijk and Ibou Konate in such situations, stating the team always believes they can score from set-pieces.
This marked the sixth time Liverpool has won a Premier League match against Everton with an injury-time goal, reinforcing their ability to win tight matches.
What the win means for Liverpool’s season
The victory gives Liverpool a seven-point advantage over Chelsea in the Champions League race, with Chelsea having lost their last four league games.
Liverpool have lost 10 league games this season, but the win over Everton significantly improves their chances of qualifying for the Champions League.
Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy told BBC Sport that missing out on Champions League qualification would be a catastrophe for the club, making this win crucial for their season.
Slot acknowledged the team has not had many positive moments this season, but the win provided a rare moment of joy after difficult exits in the FA Cup and Champions League.
What challenges remain for Liverpool moving forward
Slot and Liverpool’s hierarchy must decide whether to retain the Dutch manager, with concerns about whether the team can develop a clear identity under his leadership.
Defensive improvements are needed, as well as finding ways to maximize the potential of new signings like Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak.
The club also faces the long-term challenge of planning for a future without Mohamed Salah, who continues to deliver in key moments despite his age.
Why was the goal scored so late in the match?
Liverpool earned the winning goal from a set-piece in the 100th minute after sustained pressure, with Van Dijk and Konate seen as reliable targets for such situations.
How does this result affect Liverpool’s Champions League chances?
The win gives Liverpool a seven-point lead over Chelsea in the race for Champions League qualification, significantly improving their prospects given Chelsea’s recent form.
What did Everton’s manager say about the match?
David Moyes claimed Everton should have been awarded a first-half penalty for a challenge by Curtis Jones on Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and described the loss as cruel.
Who stepped in as goalkeeper after Mamardashvili’s injury?
Freddie Woodman came on as Liverpool’s third goalkeeper and was not seriously tested before Van Dijk’s winning goal.