Liverpool vs Everton delivered yet another heated Merseyside derby, packed with tension, controversy, and a crucial winner that could help crown Liverpool as champions.
In a tightly contested 1-0 win at Anfield, Diogo Jota was the difference-maker, scoring the only goal of the game and pushing Liverpool a step closer to the Premier League title.
With only eight games left, Liverpool vs Everton wasn’t just about local pride — it was about staying in control at the top of the table. And while it wasn’t Liverpool’s most fluid performance of the season, it showed the grit and determination of a title-winning side.
Liverpool vs Everton: A Derby With Everything on the Line
This was the 246th meeting between the reds and Everton — and like so many before it, the match had moments of brilliance, controversy, and raw emotion. For Arne Slot, it was a personal triumph too. His celebration at full-time was telling: relief, passion, and the understanding that every point matters now.
Everton came into the game nine unbeaten in the league and full of belief after holding Liverpool to a dramatic draw just weeks ago. But this time, the visitors couldn’t land the punch. Despite creating some big chances, they left Anfield empty-handed.
Jota’s Moment of Magic
The difference in this Liverpool vs Everton clash came down to one moment of quality. In the 57th minute, Diogo Jota took control. After a clever backheel from Luis Díaz, the Portuguese forward burst into the box, skipped past Idrissa Gueye, and buried a composed finish beyond Jordan Pickford.
JOTA pic.twitter.com/L9ZFerTsod
— Liverpool FC Brasil (@LFCBrasil) April 2, 2025
The goal came after the reds started the second half with renewed intensity. Ryan Gravenberch was beginning to dominate midfield, and the Kop could sense the breakthrough. Jota’s strike was just reward for Liverpool’s growing control — and a hammer blow to Everton’s hopes of an upset.
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Should Jota’s Goal Have Stood?
Controversy is never far away in Liverpool vs Everton fixtures. This one was no different. Everton manager David Moyes was furious post-match, claiming Díaz was offside in the build-up to the goal. And yes, on replay, he clearly was — but according to the rules, he didn’t interfere with play at that moment.
James Tarkowski, who failed to clear properly, may not have known that — and his poor touch led directly to the goal. Still, Everton fans will feel hard done by.
First-Half Fire and Frustration
Before the goal, the match was cagey and full of scrappy battles. Everton, as expected, sat deep and looked to hit on the break through Beto, who caused real problems for Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté.
In the 11th minute, Tarkowski launched into a high tackle on Alexis Mac Allister, catching him with studs up. It looked like a potential red card — but referee Sam Barrott only showed yellow. Even VAR, manned by the familiar Paul Tierney, didn’t overturn the call.
The reds’ best early chance came through Mohamed Salah, who nodded straight at Pickford after a pinpoint cross from Díaz. But it was Everton who nearly stunned Anfield before the break. Beto raced through twice — scoring once (ruled offside) and hitting the post on his second attempt. Liverpool were lucky to go in level at half-time.
Liverpool vs Everton: Key Match Stats
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Final score: Liverpool 1-0 Everton
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Goal scorer: Diogo Jota (57’)
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Possession: Liverpool 64% – Everton 36%
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Shots on target: Liverpool 6 – Everton 3
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Yellow cards: Tarkowski (11’), Doucouré (73’)
Liverpool’s Title Race Still Alive
This gritty win keeps Liverpool firmly in the driving seat. They now need just 13 more points from their final eight fixtures to potentially clinch the Premier League title — and they’re showing the resolve needed in tight, high-pressure moments.
Even without Alisson in goal (due to concussion protocols), Caoimhín Kelleher stepped up with vital saves and calm distribution. Andy Robertson, returning from injury, brought energy and leadership, while Jota showed again why he’s one of the most reliable big-game players in the league.
Everton’s Missed Opportunity
For Everton, this one will sting. Moyes’ side created enough chances to at least grab a draw, especially in the first half. But poor finishing — and a touch of misfortune — proved costly. Beto’s missed one-on-one and Alcaraz’s skewed header were pivotal moments.
They’ve now lost to their biggest rivals and seen their unbeaten streak snapped. With a tough run-in, Moyes will need to rally his side quickly.
