Liverpool Edge Closer to Premier League Title with Late Win Over West Ham | OneFootball

Liverpool Defeat West Ham to Tighten Grip on Premier League Title

Salah’s Precision and Van Dijk’s Power Lift Reds at Anfield

With tension tightening and margins narrowing at the summit of the Premier League, Liverpool summoned the mentality that has defined their season — one of resolve, patience, and belief. A last-gasp header from Virgil van Dijk handed the Reds a 2-1 win over a spirited West Ham United, nudging them ever closer to the championship.

Anfield, expectant and alive, erupted in the 90th minute when the captain rose unmarked to meet a corner, nodding home with command and clarity. It was a goal that encapsulated the essence of Van Dijk — calm, authoritative, decisive — and it may prove defining in this title race.

Victory now leaves Liverpool with a simple equation: if Arsenal falter at Ipswich next weekend, Arne Slot’s side could secure the crown by defeating Leicester City.

Photo: IMAGO

Salah Sets the Tone, Díaz Strikes Early

The match began with purpose. Mohamed Salah, newly committed to the club following the announcement of a fresh two-year contract, wasted no time reaffirming his value. With 18 minutes played, he picked out Luis Díaz with a pass that threaded perfectly through the West Ham defence.

The Colombian’s movement matched the delivery — sharp and intuitive — and the finish, calm and clinical, gave Liverpool the early lead. Salah, ever the provider as well as the finisher, continues to define moments in red.

West Ham Fight Back with Spirit

Yet Liverpool’s control proved short-lived. West Ham, who have often brought steel to these fixtures, struck back with deserved vigour. A low cross caused havoc and in the ensuing scramble, Andy Robertson inadvertently diverted the ball past his own goalkeeper.

At 1-1, the contest simmered. Graham Potter’s side, well-drilled and well-balanced, frustrated the hosts. For long spells, they kept Liverpool’s attacking line from finding its rhythm, while probing on the counter with intent.

Photo: IMAGO

Van Dijk Delivers When It Matters

As minutes ticked away and nerves crept in, Liverpool’s urgency grew. Corners became opportunities, set-pieces invitations. Then came the moment: a deep delivery, Van Dijk unmarked, the header firm. It was a strike of substance, and perhaps, symbolism.

Now 13 points clear of second-placed Arsenal with six league matches remaining, Liverpool can almost reach out and touch the trophy. There is work still to be done, but this felt like a statement of intent.