In a pulsating Merseyside derby, Everton delivered a pivotal 2-0 home victory over Liverpool, potentially extinguishing the Reds’ Premier League title aspirations. With this triumph, Everton secured their first derby victory at Goodison Park in over 13 years, preventing Liverpool from closing the gap with Arsenal at the summit of the league table.
Juergen Klopp’s men now trail the Gunners by three points with just four games remaining. Conversely, Manchester City remains in the driving seat with a two-point advantage but possesses two games in hand. Everton’s victory, on the other hand, provides them significant breathing space in their battle against relegation, as they now sit eight points clear of the drop zone.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk expressed his disappointment after the match, stating, “There are obviously still games after tonight, but if we play like we did tonight, we have no chance to win the title.”
Everton began the match with greater sharpness and were awarded a penalty when Calvert-Lewin was brought down by Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson. However, VAR overturned the decision due to offside. Undeterred, Branthwaite broke the deadlock in the 27th minute, capitalizing on sloppy defending from Liverpool and tapping home from close range.
Calvert-Lewin extended Everton’s lead in the 58th minute, heading home a corner kick. Despite Liverpool’s history of impressive comebacks this season, Everton held firm to inflict Klopp’s first defeat at Goodison in his final derby before departing at the end of the season.
“Where we are in the league, we needed a massive three points and everything kind of came together tonight,” Calvert-Lewin said after the match.
Liverpool maintained pressure on Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in the closing stages, but the Toffees remained resolute. The final whistle sparked jubilant scenes as Everton’s faithful celebrated their hard-fought victory.
“Great atmosphere, thoroughly deserved it, was a massive win. Hard work pays off,” Pickford said.
While Liverpool secured the League Cup earlier this season, the Premier League title remains their only realistic target after their eliminations from the FA Cup and Europa League. However, Everton’s triumph has cast doubt over their title hopes.
