Liverpool edged closer to their 20th English top-flight title with a dramatic 2-1 victory over West Ham United at Anfield on April 13, 2025. The Reds now require just two more wins to clinch the Premier League crown, following a match that saw Mohamed Salah break a significant record and Virgil van Dijk score a decisive late goal.
MATCH SUMMARY
The game commenced with Liverpool asserting early dominance. In the 12th minute, Mohamed Salah, fresh from signing a new contract extending his stay until 2027, delivered a precise assist to Luis Díaz, who slotted the ball past West Ham’s goalkeeper to give Liverpool the lead.
Despite Liverpool’s control, West Ham remained resilient. Their persistence paid off in the 86th minute when a mix-up between Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson resulted in an own goal, leveling the score.
However, Liverpool responded swiftly. Just three minutes later, in the 89th minute, van Dijk redeemed himself by heading in a corner from Alexis Mac Allister, restoring Liverpool’s lead and securing the victory.
KEY MOMENT
- 12′ – Goal: Luis Díaz scores from a Salah assist, giving Liverpool an early lead.
- 86′ – Own Goal: A miscommunication between van Dijk and Robertson results in an own goal, bringing West Ham level.
- 89′ – Goal: Van Dijk heads in a corner from Mac Allister, securing the win for Liverpool.
PLAYER HIGHLIGHTS
Mohamed Salah: With his assist to Díaz, Salah reached 45 goal contributions (27 goals and 18 assists) this season, setting a new Premier League record for a 38-game campaign. This surpasses the previous record of 44 held by Thierry Henry and Erling Haaland.
Virgil van Dijk: Despite being involved in the own goal, van Dijk showcased leadership and resilience by scoring the match-winning goal, marking his 100th game as Liverpool captain.
This victory extends Liverpool’s lead at the top of the Premier League to 13 points over second-placed Arsenal, with six games remaining. The Reds are now just two wins away from securing their 20th league title.
For West Ham, the defeat leaves them in 17th place, just above the relegation zone. Their winless streak extends to five matches, increasing the pressure as they fight to maintain their Premier League status.
Liverpool will aim to continue their winning momentum in upcoming fixtures against Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur. Securing victories in these matches would confirm their status as Premier League champions.
West Ham faces a challenging period ahead, needing to secure points in their remaining fixtures to avoid relegation.
