Diogo Jota’s goal seals Liverpool’s 1-0 win over Everton in Merseyside Derby

Liverpool secures crucial victory over Everton to strengthen lead in Premier League title race.

Diogo Jota celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Everton at Anfield on April 2, 2025, in Liverpool, England. Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Liverpool strengthened their grip on the Premier League title race with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Everton in the Merseyside Derby at Anfield on Thursday morning WIB. Diogo Jota’s decisive goal in the second half ensured The Reds took all three points, extending their lead at the top of the table.

Liverpool dominates but struggles to break through

With their home supporters behind them, Liverpool took control of the match from the start, enjoying 74 percent possession. Jurgen Klopp’s team dictated the tempo, forcing Everton into a deep defensive shape. Despite their dominance, The Reds struggled to create clear-cut chances in the opening half.

Everton, aware of Liverpool’s attacking power, set up a solid defensive block and relied on counterattacks. The Toffees thought they had taken the lead in the first half when Beto found the back of the net. However, VAR ruled the goal out for offside, denying Everton a shocking advantage.

Liverpool kept pushing, with Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah attempting to break through Everton’s backline. However, Jordan Pickford remained alert, making key saves to frustrate the home side.

Jota’s moment of brilliance breaks the deadlock

The breakthrough finally came in the 57th minute through a moment of individual brilliance from Diogo Jota. The Portuguese forward capitalized on a clever backheel pass from Diaz inside the penalty box. He weaved past two Everton defenders before unleashing a powerful shot that beat Pickford, sending the Anfield crowd into celebration.

With the lead secured, Liverpool continued to control the game, limiting Everton’s attacking opportunities. The visitors struggled to respond, managing only a few attempts that failed to trouble Alisson Becker.

Liverpool strengthens Premier League lead

This crucial victory further cements Liverpool’s position at the top of the Premier League standings. With 73 points from 30 matches, The Reds now hold a commanding 12-point lead over second-placed Arsenal. Klopp’s squad is edging closer to reclaiming the league title, maintaining their consistency in the final stretch of the season.

Meanwhile, Everton remains in a precarious position. The loss keeps them in 15th place with 34 points, still battling to stay clear of the relegation zone. Sean Dyche’s team will need to find positive results in their upcoming matches to secure their top-flight status.

Focus shifts to the title run-in

With just eight matches remaining, Liverpool is in prime position to lift the Premier League trophy. However, they cannot afford any complacency as Arsenal and Manchester City continue to chase them. Klopp will demand full focus from his players as they approach the decisive phase of the season.

On the other hand, Everton faces a challenging run of fixtures that could determine their survival in the Premier League. Dyche’s men must bounce back quickly to avoid being dragged further into the relegation battle.

As the final weeks of the season approach, Liverpool’s victory in the Merseyside Derby serves as a major step toward the title, while Everton remains under pressure to secure safety.