Late Van Dijk header helps Liverpool beat West Ham United at Anfield

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk scored a dramatic 90th-minute header to seal a 2-1 win over West Ham United at Anfield, moving the Reds within touching distance of the Premier League title.

Luis Diaz opened the scoring in the 18th minute after a sublime pass from Mohamed Salah, who recently signed a two-year contract extension. However, the visitors equalised through an Andy Robertson own goal, making it 1-1 and putting pressure back on the title hopefuls.

Despite a tense second half, Van Dijk rose above the West Ham defence to nod in a late winner from a corner, pushing Liverpool 13 points clear of Arsenal with just six matches remaining. If Arsenal lose to Ipswich next weekend, a Liverpool win against Leicester will secure the title.

Goalkeeper Alisson, returning from concussion, was instrumental with key saves, denying Mohammed Kudus and Jarrod Bowen. Both teams also struck the woodwork, with Alexis Mac Allister and Niclas Fullkrug going close.

While Liverpool celebrated a vital win and confirmed their place in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, West Ham’s survival remains uncertain as they slip to 17th — 14 points above the drop zone.