In a thrilling Liverpool vs West Ham encounter at Anfield, the Reds took another massive step toward their second Premier League title with a hard-fought 2-1 victory. The dramatic win saw Mohamed Salah make history with a record-breaking season contribution, while captain Virgil van Dijk’s towering late header snatched the three points after a tense finish.
With just six games remaining in the 2024/2025 season, Liverpool now sit 13 points clear of Arsenal, needing only two more victories to mathematically secure the crown. For West Ham, the result leaves them precariously hovering just above the relegation zone.
An Emotional Start at Anfield
Before kickoff, a minute of silence was observed in memory of the 97 victims of the 1989 Hillsborough Stadium disaster. The solemnity quickly gave way to chants of joy from the home supporters, particularly for Mohamed Salah, who recently extended his contract with the club.
Anfield was buzzing, and the atmosphere set the stage perfectly for another chapter in this season’s Liverpool vs West Ham story—one filled with milestones, emotion, and decisive moments.
Salah’s Magic Opens the Scoring
Liverpool began on the front foot, and it didn’t take long before their relentless attacking pressure paid off. Mohamed Salah, as influential as ever, provided a moment of magic with a sublime assist. Using the outside of his boot, he curled a pinpoint pass beyond the West Ham defence to Luis Diaz, who tapped in from close range to make it 1-0.
That assist marked Salah’s 45th goal involvement in a single 38-game Premier League season—an extraordinary achievement comprising 27 goals and 18 assists, setting a new league record. It further cemented his legacy as one of the Premier League’s greatest contributors and added extra gloss to this iconic Liverpool vs West Ham fixture.
West Ham Threaten, But Alisson Stands Tall
Despite Liverpool’s dominance, West Ham showed flashes of threat. Mohammed Kudus came closest to levelling the score in the first half, spotting Alisson Becker off his line and attempting a delicate lob. The Brazilian keeper reacted swiftly, scrambling back and tipping the ball onto the crossbar to preserve the lead.
Shortly after halftime, Alexis Mac Allister nearly doubled Liverpool’s advantage with a venomous free-kick that was brilliantly tipped onto the bar by Alphonse Areola. Anfield gasped in unison as the ball rebounded out, keeping the scoreline finely balanced.
Penalty Appeal Denied
The Liverpool vs West Ham match wasn’t without its moments of controversy. A cross into the Hammers’ box struck the hand of James Ward-Prowse, but Liverpool’s appeal for a penalty was waved away by the referee.
Moments later, Alisson was again called into action—racing off his line to thwart Jarrod Bowen, who had been sent through on goal by a clever Lucas Paquetá pass. Liverpool were holding firm, but the tension was rising.
SUGGESTED FOR YOU
Subdued Salah and Anfield’s Nervous Energy
As the match progressed, the Anfield faithful grew increasingly restless. Salah, chasing a goal to end a five-game drought, looked frustrated when he was substituted. It marked a rare quiet outing for the Egyptian, but his earlier assist ensured his impact on the Liverpool vs West Ham clash was profound nonetheless.
The tension peaked in the 86th minute when a defensive mishap gifted West Ham their equaliser. Andy Robertson, attempting to deal with a cross from Aaron Wan-Bissaka, miscommunicated with Van Dijk and turned the ball into his own net. The full-back was visibly furious, directing his frustration at Van Dijk for not taking charge of the situation.
Van Dijk’s Redemption: A Captain’s Moment
But as great leaders do, Van Dijk responded instantly. Just three minutes later, he made amends in the most emphatic way possible. From a perfectly delivered Mac Allister corner, the Dutch defender rose above everyone else and thumped a header past Areola to restore Liverpool’s lead.
The roar that followed from the Kop was deafening. It wasn’t just a goal—it was a statement. A defining moment in the Liverpool vs West Ham encounter, one that could be remembered as the moment the title was effectively secured.
Speaking after the game, Van Dijk reflected, “I heard Robertson shout, but these things unfortunately happen. There was time to make it right and luckily we did.”
Captain’s Milestone and Future Uncertainty
Van Dijk’s winning goal came on a day that marked his 100th game as Liverpool captain—an emotional milestone for the Dutchman. While his contract is set to expire at the end of the season, he gave fans hope that he might stay on.
“The main focus was to get three points and get a little closer to all of our dreams. Everyone knows how much I love this club, let’s see what next week will look like,” he hinted post-match.
Title Race Situation
The 2-1 win now puts Liverpool a commanding 13 points clear at the summit of the Premier League table. With just six matches to go, they need only two more victories to officially claim their second league title under manager Jürgen Klopp.
West Ham’s Woes Continue
For West Ham, the match was another frustrating chapter in a disappointing season. Sitting 17th with 35 points, they are now 14 points clear of the relegation zone. Although mathematically safe for the time being, their inconsistent performances will continue to cause concern as the season winds down.
Full-Time Summary: Liverpool vs West Ham
- Final Score: Liverpool 2–1 West Ham United
- Goals:
- Luis Diaz (Liverpool) – 1st Half
- Andy Robertson (Own Goal – West Ham Equaliser) – 86th minute
- Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool) – 89th minute
- Assists: Mohamed Salah, Alexis Mac Allister
- Man of the Match: Mohamed Salah (for breaking the EPL record and providing the opening assist)
Conclusion
This Liverpool vs West Ham encounter had everything—emotion, drama, historic milestones, and a late winner that kept the dream alive at Anfield. With Salah setting records and Van Dijk stepping up when it mattered most, Liverpool now edge ever closer to Premier League glory. West Ham, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly to avoid slipping further into end-of-season trouble.
This was not just another match—it was a turning point in the title race, a moment that defined champions, and a game that reminded everyone why the Premier League is the most thrilling competition in world football.
