Van Dijk becomes Liverpool’s hero with dramatic winning goal against West Ham

Virgil van Dijk became Liverpool’s hero by scoring an 89th-minute winner — securing a 2-1 victory over West Ham United at Anfield.

The 33-year-old captain managed to redeem himself after his error led to Andy Robertson’s own goal just three minutes earlier. The win extends Liverpool’s lead at the top of the Premier League to 13 points over Arsenal, who dropped points in a draw against Brentford.

Mohamed Salah — fresh from signing a two-year contract extension — broke the Premier League record with 45 combined goals and assists in a single season. The Egyptian provided a brilliant assist for Luis Diaz’s opening goal in the 18th minute.

West Ham grew into the game in the second half with several chances brilliantly saved by Alisson Becker. The visitors’ pressure finally paid off through Robertson’s own goal following a misunderstanding with Van Dijk.

“As a manager, you look for players who have already achieved a lot to step up in the most important moments of the season,” said coach Arne Slot. “Alisson had his best game today, Virgil scored the winner, and Mo was crucial for the first goal.”

Liverpool now needs just six more points to secure this season’s Premier League title.