Liverpool secured a hard-fought victory over West Ham United on Sunday, edging out their opponents 2-1 at Anfield in a match that underscored both their resilience and the brilliance of goalkeeper Alisson Becker. The win propelled them closer to claiming the Premier League title.
The Reds initially took the lead early on, with Luis Diaz finding the back of the net in the 18th minute following a precise assist from Mohamed Salah. However, West Ham responded late into the game when Andy Robertson inadvertently deflected the ball into his own net, seemingly salvaging a draw for the visitors.
It was then that defender Virgil van Dijk stepped up, rising to meet a cross and powerfully heading home a crucial goal in the dying moments of the match, securing all three points for Liverpool. While Diaz and Van Dijk were on the scoresheet, it was Alisson Becker’s exceptional performance between the posts that truly defined the game. The Brazilian produced several stunning saves, repeatedly thwarting West Ham’s attempts to equalize or even take the lead.
Manager Arne Slot acknowledged Alisson’s pivotal role after the match, stating, “Second half it was all about Alisson.” He admitted a degree of fortune in their victory, adding, “Today we were lucky that Alisson saved a few times really well.”
Slot continued to praise his team’s character. “The way we conceded was a big disappointment but the boys showed why they are in the position they are in,”
he commented. “With these mentality players – it was a win for us 2-1.”
Currently, Liverpool needs just six more points to clinch their first Premier League title since 2020.
Slot highlighted the importance of Van Dijk’s winning goal. “It was definitely a significant goal because now we need two more wins,”
he explained. He acknowledged the competitiveness of the league, noting that despite a comfortable lead, securing victories remains challenging. “To win this one is nice, now we know we only have to win twice. We know what we have to do which is difficult but we will fight for it as hard as we can.”
Van Dijk echoed his manager’s sentiments after the match, stating, “These things [the own goal] unfortunately happen and it was time to make it right,”
before adding that he was pleased to captain Liverpool in his 100th game. He also acknowledged the emotional significance of the day, referencing the anniversary of the Hillsborough tragedy. “On to the next one. I am very happy to captain my 100th game for Liverpool, it was an emotional day with Hillsborough and that was the main focus. One step closer to all our dreams.”
- Liverpool now require six points to secure the Premier League title.
- Virgil van Dijk reached a milestone of 100 games as captain for Liverpool.
