Van Dijk’s 100th-minute header seals dramatic derby win as Everton suffer late heartbreak

Liverpool delivered a crushing late blow to Everton in a dramatic Merseyside derby, as Virgil van Dijk’s 100th-minute header secured a 2-1 victory at the newly opened Hill Dickinson Stadium. The result not only stunned the home crowd but also pushed Liverpool closer to Champions League qualification.

The match, the first derby at Everton’s £800m new ground, unfolded with intensity and tension from the outset. Everton began brightly, driven by an energetic home atmosphere and a desire to mark the occasion with a statement performance. Yet, despite their early dominance, the familiar narrative of late Liverpool drama ultimately prevailed.

David Moyes’ side looked composed and inventive in the opening stages, creating several promising chances. Beto forced an early save from Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili and later squandered a clear opportunity when he misdirected his shot wide. Everton’s frustration grew further when a well-worked goal from Iliman Ndiaye was ruled out for offside following a VAR review, denying them a deserved lead.

Liverpool, meanwhile, struggled to impose themselves in open play but remained dangerous from set pieces. Their breakthrough came in ruthless fashion. Everton’s defensive lapse allowed Cody Gakpo to seize possession, and his precise pass found Mohamed Salah unmarked. The forward calmly finished past Jordan Pickford, marking his ninth Merseyside derby goal and giving Liverpool the advantage against the run of play.

The visitors grew in confidence following the goal, controlling possession and creating further chances before half-time. However, Everton refused to fade. Early in the second half, they responded with determination. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall delivered a dangerous ball across goal, and Beto reacted quickest to slide home the equaliser, restoring parity and reigniting the contest.

The equaliser came at a cost. In the aftermath, Mamardashvili suffered a knee injury and had to be stretchered off, forcing Liverpool to introduce third-choice goalkeeper Freddie Woodman for his league debut. Everton also endured further setbacks as Beto later exited with a head injury, and Jarrad Branthwaite was carried off in tears after what appeared to be a recurring hamstring issue.

As the game wore on, both sides appeared to settle for a draw. Everton’s momentum faded following their injuries and substitutions, while Liverpool regrouped and began to assert control once more.

Then came the decisive moment. Deep into stoppage time, Liverpool finally capitalised on their persistent set-piece threat. Dominik Szoboszlai delivered a precise corner, and Van Dijk rose above James Tarkowski to power home a close-range header. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the visiting players and supporters, sealing a dramatic victory in the dying seconds.

For Liverpool manager Arne Slot, the win represented a vital response after a difficult week, including their recent exit from the Champions League. It also strengthened their push for a return to Europe’s top competition next season.

For Everton, however, the result was devastating. Having matched their rivals for much of the match, they were left to reflect on missed chances, injuries and the cruel timing of Liverpool’s winner.

The derby may have introduced a new stadium, but the outcome followed a familiar script. Liverpool, once again, found a way to break Everton hearts at the very last moment.