Anfield, Liverpool — Liverpool edged closer to clinching the Premier League title after a dramatic 2-1 victory over West Ham United, with captain Virgil van Dijk’s 90th-minute header securing three crucial points at Anfield.

The win moves Jürgen Klopp’s side 13 points clear at the top of the table with only six matches remaining. If second-placed Arsenal lose at Ipswich next weekend, the Reds could seal the title with a win over Leicester City.

Salah Stars in Triumphant Return to Form

In his first match since signing a new two-year deal, Mohamed Salah returned to top form, playing a key role in Liverpool’s opener. Eighteen minutes in, the Egyptian delivered a stunning outside-of-the-boot pass to Luis Díaz, who coolly converted to give the hosts the lead. The assist marked Salah’s 45th goal contribution in the league this season — a record for a 38-game Premier League campaign.

Before the goal, Salah had looked determined to silence his recent critics, having gone four games without a goal or assist. He frequently tormented West Ham wing-back Ollie Scarles and came close to scoring himself, narrowly missing the target and visibly frustrated.

A Slippery Grip on Control

Despite the strong start, Liverpool failed to maintain their dominance. West Ham gradually gained momentum, and their persistence paid off when Andy Robertson inadvertently turned the ball into his own net to level the score.

The Hammers, who remain just above the relegation zone, created several promising chances, particularly in the second half. Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, returning from a concussion-related absence, delivered a series of vital saves — most notably tipping a Mohammed Kudus effort onto the crossbar and denying both Kudus and Jarrod Bowen in one-on-one situations.

West Ham substitute Niclas Fullkrug also struck the post in a late scare for the home side.

Van Dijk Delivers at the Death

With the match seemingly headed for a draw, Van Dijk rose above the West Ham defense in the final minute to power home a corner and seal the win. The Dutch defender, who is reportedly close to signing a contract extension alongside Salah, was mobbed by teammates as Anfield erupted.

The victory not only edges Liverpool closer to the league title but also confirms their qualification for the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League.

Mixed Fortunes for the Hammers

Despite the loss, West Ham can take positives from a strong performance. Manager Graham Potter has seen modest progress since taking over from Julen Lopetegui, collecting 12 points in as many matches. Sunday’s performance was far more competitive than their previous two meetings with Liverpool this season, in which they conceded five goals each time.

Lucas Paquetá impressed in midfield, especially in the second half, as the visitors pushed for an equaliser. While a point would not have flattered West Ham, they were ultimately undone by a goalkeeper in top form and a moment of brilliance from Van Dijk.

Looking Ahead

With Salah’s future secured and Van Dijk reportedly next in line, Liverpool’s focus now turns to maintaining their form for a potential title-clinching performance against Leicester. However, uncertainty remains around other key players. Trent Alexander-Arnold is rumored to be on Real Madrid’s radar, and Darwin Núñez was left out of Sunday’s squad entirely.

For West Ham, the fight for Premier League survival isn’t over. They sit 17th — 14 points above the relegation zone — but with form improving, they’ll aim to build on their encouraging display against the league leaders.

Anfield’s roar on Sunday made it clear: Liverpool are on the brink — and they’re not letting go easily.