Liverpool continued their pursuit of Premier League glory with a thrilling 2-1 victory over West Ham United on Sunday. Mohamed Salah broke the record for the most goal involvements in a 38-game season, while Virgil van Dijk headed in a late winner to secure all three points at Anfield.
The Reds struck early when Salah delivered a sublime cross with the outside of his boot, curling past the last defender to find Luis Díaz. The Colombian forward tapped in from close range, giving Liverpool the perfect start. This assist marked Salah’s 45th goal involvement of the season—27 goals and 18 assists—a new Premier League record.
West Ham nearly leveled the score when Mohammed Kudus spotted goalkeeper Alisson Becker off his line and attempted an audacious lob. Alisson scrambled back just in time to tip the ball onto the crossbar, preserving Liverpool’s lead.
Early in the second half, Alexis Mac Allister came close to doubling the advantage with a free kick that rattled the crossbar after a fingertip save from Alphonse Areola. Despite Liverpool’s dominance, West Ham grew into the game, and the Anfield crowd grew restless.
The Hammers found an equalizer in the 86th minute when a miscommunication in Liverpool’s defense led to Andy Robertson inadvertently turning Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s cross into his own net. Robertson was visibly frustrated, but captain Virgil van Dijk made amends just three minutes later.
As the clock ticked down, Mac Allister floated a corner into the box, and van Dijk rose highest to head home the winner, igniting wild celebrations among the home fans. The victory puts Liverpool within two wins of clinching the Premier League title, extending their lead over second-placed Arsenal to 13 points with six matches remaining.
Before kickoff, a minute’s silence honored the 97 victims of the 1989 Hillsborough Stadium disaster. The emotional atmosphere was palpable, and van Dijk reflected on the significance of the day. “I’m very proud to captain my 100th game for Liverpool on such an emotional day,” he said. “The main focus was to get three points and get a little closer to all of our dreams.”
Salah’s record-breaking performance and van Dijk’s leadership have Liverpool fans dreaming of more silverware. With the end of the season approaching, the Reds are firmly in control of their destiny.
