Liverpool Close in on Title After Hard-Fought Win Over West Ham at Anfield

Liverpool took a massive step toward Premier League glory on April 13, 2025, grinding out a 2-1 win against a determined West Ham United side at Anfield. The Reds had to dig deep to come away with all three points, in a performance that combined early dominance with late drama.

It was Luis Díaz who gave the home crowd something to cheer about early, putting Liverpool in front in the 18th minute. The Colombian winger found the net after connecting with a precise delivery from Mohamed Salah, who was playing with renewed energy after recently extending his stay with the club. The Reds controlled the tempo for most of the first half, their trademark high press and slick interplay leaving the visitors chasing shadows.

But West Ham weren’t just there to make up the numbers. After weathering the storm, they grew into the game and were eventually rewarded for their persistence. A moment of miscommunication in Liverpool’s backline led to a calamitous own goal from Andy Robertson in the 78th minute, drawing the Hammers level and silencing the Kop—if only briefly.

With the game hanging in the balance, it was Liverpool’s leader who stepped up. Virgil van Dijk, the ever-reliable captain, delivered a clutch moment in the 89th minute, rising highest to meet a pinpoint corner from Alexis Mac Allister. His thumping header left West Ham keeper Alphonse Areola with no chance and sent Anfield into raptures.

The victory lifts Liverpool to 76 points, maintaining a 10-point lead over Arsenal, who dropped points earlier with a 1-1 stalemate against Brentford. With only two more wins needed to seal their 20th league crown, Arne Slot's side are within touching distance of the title.

Despite the defeat, West Ham can take heart from their spirited showing. Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus were constant thorns in Liverpool’s side, and the Londoners remain comfortably in mid-table with 35 points.