Liverpool’s dreams of clinching the Premier League title were dashed following a 2-0 defeat to Everton in the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
Jurgen Klopp’s side found themselves outplayed in every aspect, marking his final clash against the Toffees with a disappointing loss. This defeat leaves Liverpool trailing Arsenal by three points in the Premier League race, with only four matches left in the season. It’s hard to find a Liverpool supporter who still believes in their chances of lifting the trophy.
With numerous players failing to meet expectations, Everton rightfully claimed victory, inching closer to securing their place in the top-flight for another season.
The match kicked off with high intensity, as Abdoulaye Doucoure missed a chance for Everton within three minutes.
Shortly after, Darwin Nunez had a promising opportunity for Liverpool but failed to make solid contact with his shot.
Then, in the sixth minute, Everton believed they had a prime chance to score from the penalty spot after Dominic Calvert-Lewin was brought down by Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker inside the box. However, a VAR review showed that Calvert-Lewin was marginally offside, granting the visitors a lucky escape.
However, it was Everton who maintained their threat, as Calvert-Lewin forced a great save from Alisson in the 16th minute.
The pressure from Dyche’s side eventually paid off as they broke the deadlock in the 29th minute. Liverpool failed to clear their lines from a set-piece, allowing Branthwaite to capitalize with a shot that squeezed past the scrambling Alisson.
Liverpool reacted swiftly, and they had a golden opportunity to equalize in the 35th minute when Darwin Nunez found himself one-on-one with Jordan Pickford. However, his shot was blocked by the Everton goalkeeper’s legs.
Eight minutes later, Luis Diaz found himself in a similar position, only to be denied once again by Pickford’s heroics. Then, in stoppage time, Pickford was once more called into action, diving to his left to parry away Andy Robertson’s low shot.
The significance of the next goal loomed large, and after both teams had their share of half-chances in the second half, Everton doubled their lead in the 58th minute. Dwight McNeil delivered a delightful cross into the Reds’ box, causing chaos, and Calvert-Lewin rose highest at the far post to nod in a powerful header.
It was a well-deserved goal that provided Everton with a cushion. However, their lead was nearly cut short in the 69th minute when Diaz cut inside and struck the far post with a thunderous effort.
Player ratings
Alisson Becker: 7
Made a crucial save from Calvert-Lewin’s close-range effort and was unfortunate to concede the opener. Denied McNeil’s attempt in the second half but was helpless for Everton’s second goal.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: 5
Attempted a few ambitious passes in the first half but contributed to Liverpool’s attacking play. However, his defensive lapse led to Everton’s second goal, resulting in his substitution.
Ibrahima Konate: 3
Struggled in the first half, bullied by Calvert-Lewin and involved in Everton’s opener. Made an immediate error at the start of the second half, leading to his substitution.
Virgil van Dijk: 6
Made some important defensive headers and clearances, although Liverpool conceded several soft free-kicks in the first half. Pushed forward more in the second half but received a booking.
Andy Robertson: 6
Energetic down the left flank, contributing both defensively and offensively. His low shot was kept out by Pickford, and he continued to pose a threat after the break before being subbed.
Alexis Mac Allister: 5
Occasionally caught out defensively playing as the number six but showed effort throughout the match, albeit frustrated by his passing. Received a booking.
Dominik Szoboszlai: 3
Apart from one forceful run into the box, had a poor first half and failed to improve much. Substituted.
Curtis Jones: 5
Displayed promising moments in possession and wasn’t afraid to get stuck in, but faced difficulties after the break before being substituted.
Mohamed Salah: 5
Provided one chance for Nunez but was mostly peripheral on the wing, more effective when drifting inside. Sent an effort over the bar before the interval and had a mixed performance in the second half.
Darwin Nunez: 4
Showed effort but let down by loose control and missed a crucial chance to equalize against Pickford. Became less effective as the game progressed.
Luis Diaz: 7
Made strong runs and had a chance saved by Pickford in the first half. Became more prominent after the break, notably hitting the post with a shot. Received a booking.
Substitutes:
Harvey Elliott (for Jones 63): 5
Unable to provide his usual energetic impact.
Wataru Endo (for Szoboszlai 63): 6
Started winning headers against Calvert-Lewin.
Jarell Quansah (for Konate 63): 6
Showed composure compared to his predecessor.
Joe Gomez (for Alexander-Arnold 84):
An interesting substitution made late in the game.
Kostas Tsimikas (for Robertson 84):
A similarly intriguing replacement, providing fresh legs in the closing stages.