-
Beth Lindop
Multiple Authors
SUNDERLAND, England — For over an hour at the Stadium of Light, it seemed like it would be just another chapter in Liverpool’s challenging season. Arne Slot’s squad entered Wearside looking to achieve something that had evaded even the most formidable teams in the Premier League this season: defeating newly promoted Sunderland at their home ground.
Both Arsenal and Manchester City had already attempted and failed. For 61 minutes, Sunderland appeared poised to maintain their enviable home record, weathering relentless pressure from Liverpool.
That changed when Virgil van Dijk scored a towering header to secure a 1-0 victory for the champions. While not a standout performance, it did reveal a much-needed resolve and determination that has often been lacking from Liverpool’s display this season.
A telling moment occurred in the closing minutes when the traveling supporters erupted in cheers as Alexis Mac Allister executed a fierce tackle, handing Liverpool the ball on a throw-in at midfield. This match wasn’t about finesse; it was about standing firm and delivering when it mattered.
– Lindop: Liverpool at a crossroads: What has gone wrong for Slot since winning the Premier League title?
– Connelly: The 50 worst transfers in Premier League history
– Olley: Frank’s Tottenham challenge was monumental, but the issues run deeper
This pivotal victory could significantly impact Liverpool’s chase for Champions League qualification, putting them just three points behind fourth-placed Manchester United and two points adrift of Chelsea. Both teams faltered in their matches on Tuesday against West Ham and Leeds, possibly providing Liverpool with additional motivation ahead of their crucial contest.
The recent collapse against Manchester City had ramped up pressure on Slot. Additionally, star player Dominik Szoboszlai was sidelined due to a suspension, making fan optimism a rare commodity before the match.
During the first half, the Liverpool fans who journeyed 170 miles from Merseyside might have felt a sense of foreboding as their team struggled to capitalize on numerous scoring chances against a solid Sunderland unit. Although Florian Wirtz showcased his skills, thwarting the Liverpool goal attempts with a stellar save from Robin Roefs and hitting the post, Liverpool could not secure a goal.
By halftime, Liverpool had dominated possession with 68.2%, registering 14 shots against Sunderland’s two. Yet, considering their track record of misfortune with scoring this season, it seemed inevitable that they might pay for their inability to finish.
However, despite the growing anxiety among fans, the players maintained their focus. After a season fraught with challenges at set pieces, it was ultimately a corner—Liverpool’s tenth of the match—that led to the breakthrough.
Even though Mohamed Salah struggled to find his rhythm, he made history by assisting van Dijk’s goal, tying Steven Gerrard for the most assists (92) in Liverpool’s Premier League history. Van Dijk, with his powerful header, also set a new record, surpassing Sami Hyypia to become the highest-scoring defender for Liverpool with 23 goals.
This turbulent season has been anything but dull, and it brought another hurdle when makeshift right-back Wataru Endo exited due to what Slot termed a “serious” ankle injury. Having had limited playing time, the Japanese international had performed well until his unfortunate exit, replaced by Joe Gomez.
Yet, instead of succumbing to adversity, Liverpool found a way to rally. Ibrahima Konaté notably shone at the center of defense, showcasing his sharp resurgence after previously being criticized for past mistakes. Against the energetic Brian Brobbey, Konaté executed a remarkable last-minute tackle, thwarting a sure goal.
Slot praised Konaté’s performance, commenting, “I’m impressed but not surprised. He represents our season; he has faced so much misfortune.” He added, “Footballers make mistakes, but it’s essential not to focus solely on that. It was good to restrict Sunderland’s chances, and Ibou contributed significantly alongside Virgil. The entire team’s mentality was commendable.”
As Liverpool pushes for Champions League qualification, they will be challenged in the coming weeks. This season has not been straightforward, marred by repeated setbacks.
However, they’ve demonstrated their ability to persevere and claim victories. If they aim for a place in Europe’s elite next season, they must continue to prove they can consistently overcome challenges.