Liverpool F.C. kept their push for a UEFA Champions League place on track with a dramatic late victory over Everton F.C., as Virgil van Dijk struck in stoppage time to secure a 2-1 win.
The Dutch defender rose highest to head home a corner from Dominik Szoboszlai deep into added time, sealing all three points in a fiercely contested Merseyside derby at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Earlier, Mohamed Salah had given Liverpool the lead in the first half, finishing calmly after a precise pass from Cody Gakpo.
Everton responded shortly after the break, with Beto converting from close range to level the score.
The game appeared headed for a draw until Van Dijk’s late intervention ensured victory for Arne Slot’s side, moving them seven points clear of Chelsea F.C. in the race for a top-five finish.
The result comes ahead of a crucial title clash between Manchester City F.C. and Arsenal F.C., which could significantly impact the title race.
Elsewhere, Aston Villa F.C. produced a thrilling comeback to defeat Sunderland A.F.C. 4-3.
Despite surrendering a two-goal lead, Villa snatched victory in stoppage time, with Ollie Watkins scoring twice and Tammy Abraham netting the decisive goal.
At the bottom end of the table, Nottingham Forest F.C. boosted their survival hopes with a 4-1 win over Burnley F.C., inspired by a hat-trick from Morgan Gibbs-White.
The victory lifts Forest further clear of the relegation zone, piling pressure on struggling Tottenham Hotspur F.C., who were held to a 2-2 draw by Brighton.