CHENNAI, India – April 3, 2025 – Liverpool FC secured an important 1-0 victory over Everton FC in the latest Merseyside derby at Anfield on April 2. Diogo Jota netted the only goal, marking a significant return to form after a ten-match goal drought, but the goal sparked controversy regarding an offside decision.
The match saw Everton’s James Tarkowski narrowly avoid a red card for a foul that some deemed dangerous. Despite a VAR review, the referee opted to issue only a yellow card. Everton almost took the lead when they had a goal disallowed for offside and later hit the post, leaving them frustrated as Jota’s goal came just after the hour mark.
Jota’s goal, while critical for Liverpool’s title hopes, raised eyebrows as it stemmed from a build-up involving Luis Diaz, who was in an offside position before Tarkowski intervened to deflect the ball. According to current offside rules, this play reset Diaz’s position, allowing him to assist Jota legally.
“Massive, of course. Not only because it’s a derby but also because it was really important to start this run-in after the international break with three points,” Jota said, expressing the significance of the win. “I always believe I will get chances and need to take them,” he added.
Manager Arne Slot praised the team’s resolve. “We created more than we did in the away game and in the end, we scored a good goal and kept a clean sheet,” he stated.
However, Everton manager David Moyes was adamant that the goal should have been disallowed. “There’s an offside goal which they get and that’s the difference in the game tonight,” he told Sky Sports. “It’s a clear offside and I think it’s a very easy decision to give,” he expressed with disappointment.
The match further highlighted Everton’s struggles at Anfield, where they have only managed one win in their last 25 Premier League away games against Liverpool, raising questions about their capacity to compete in the derby.
Luis Diaz also showcased his talent by creating six chances, the most by a Liverpool player against Everton in a Premier League match since Mohamed Salah in 2017. “It was a difficult game, and we faced a well-organized team. The boys showed immense character today,” Slot emphasized.
Defender Virgil van Dijk reflected on the intense nature of derby matches. “They make it very difficult for you. The games have always been tough, but we secured three points today and that’s what matters,” he said.
Amidst all the discussion, pundits have begun to question the fairness of the offside laws, particularly in light of this incident. The debate centers on whether Diaz’s presence interfered enough with Tarkowski’s play to warrant an offside call despite the current interpretation not defining it as such.
With this win, Liverpool now moves 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League table, inching closer to their title aspirations. On the other hand, Everton will seek to regroup as they face Arsenal in their next outing, hoping to salvage their season and avoid relegation struggles.
