Virgil van Dijk scored a late winner to secure a 2-1 victory for Liverpool over West Ham at Anfield on Sunday, moving the Reds to within six points of clinching the Premier League title.
With the game poised at 1-1 and time running out, Van Dijk rose highest to head home in the 89th minute, ensuring league leaders Liverpool capitalised on Arsenal’s 1-1 slip-up against Brentford on Saturday.
Luis Diaz had opened the scoring in the 18th minute after being set up by Mohamed Salah, who marked his new two-year contract with yet another decisive contribution — his 45th goal involvement of the season, a record for a 38-game Premier League campaign according to Opta.
However, Liverpool were momentarily pegged back when Andrew Robertson inadvertently turned the ball into his net in the 86th minute, giving West Ham late hope. But Van Dijk’s emphatic response ensured that Arne Slot’s side walked away with all three points.
Title within reach
The win takes Liverpool 13 points clear at the top with six matches remaining. They now need just two more wins to guarantee a record-equalling 20th English league title — drawing level with arch-rivals Manchester United.
Liverpool could be crowned champions as early as next Sunday if second-placed Arsenal lose to Ipswich earlier in the day and the Reds secure victory in their match.
Salah shines again
Salah’s assist for Diaz was yet another highlight in a season full of them for the Egyptian forward, whose future had been a topic of speculation before signing his contract extension. He left the field to a standing ovation from the Anfield faithful, underlining his importance to the title charge.
