Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk spared his side’s blushes with a decisive late goal that secured a 2-1 victory over West Ham United on Sunday, bringing them within six points of the Premier League title.
Liverpool took an early lead through forward Luis Diaz, who capitalised on a low cross delivered by forward Mohamed Salah. Salah, who had recently ended speculation over his future by signing a new two-year contract, outmuscled West Ham’s young left-back Ollie Scarles before providing the assist for Diaz.
The match, played under intense scrutiny as the title race approached its climax, saw Liverpool's momentum falter late in the game. With only four minutes remaining, West Ham found an equaliser through an own goal from Scotland captain and Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson. Robertson diverted a cross from defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka into his own net following a mix-up with van Dijk.
Van Dijk, however, restored Liverpool's lead just three minutes later. The Dutchman met a corner from midfielder Alexis Mac Allister and powered his header into the net. Van Dijk celebrated by kissing the club badge, which was seen by many as a potential nod towards reports of him nearing a new contract extension.
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker delivered a commanding performance, producing key saves that maintained his side’s advantage. Alisson tipped a chip from West Ham forward Mohammed Kudus onto the bar and later denied Kudus again with a strong stop. He also thwarted a one-on-one effort from forward Jarrod Bowen.
Despite late pressure, including a stoppage-time shot that struck the bar from striker Niclas Fullkrug, Liverpool held on for the victory.
The result placed Liverpool thirteen points clear at the top of the table with six games left to play. A record-equalling twentieth English top-flight title remained within reach and could be secured as early as next Sunday, contingent on results involving Leicester City and Arsenal.
West Ham, meanwhile, dropped to seventeenth in the standings after the defeat but had created several chances throughout the match to earn at least a draw.
