EPL: Van Dijk header secures Liverpool win vs Sunderland

Liverpool strengthened their push for a top-five finish with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Wednesday night.

Virgil van Dijk’s second-half header proved decisive as Arne Slot’s side became the first away team to claim three points at the venue this season. The result also allowed Liverpool to capitalise on Chelsea and Manchester United dropping points 24 hours earlier.

Wirtz pulls the strings

Liverpool controlled large spells of the first half, creating the clearer openings.

Florian Wirtz was central to that dominance. The Germany international twice tested Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs and later struck the base of the post after working space inside the penalty area.

Despite the pressure, the visitors went into the break without a breakthrough. Sunderland, compact and disciplined, offered limited threat but remained within reach of a result.

The momentum continued after half-time. Liverpool sustained their territorial advantage and eventually found the goal their performance warranted just past the hour mark.

Mohamed Salah delivered a corner into the area and Van Dijk rose highest, his header taking a deflection off Habib Diarra before finding the net.

Defensive authority and Missed6 Chances

Van Dijk’s influence extended beyond the goal. The captain marshalled the back line effectively, ensuring Sunderland struggled to create meaningful opportunities.

Liverpool had chances to extend their lead. Hugo Ekitike headed wide from a promising position, while Salah came close in stoppage time with a dipping effort that narrowly missed the target.

Sunderland introduced attacking substitutes in search of an equaliser but failed to test Liverpool’s defensive resolve. The visitors managed the closing stages professionally to secure a narrow yet important win.

The result keeps Liverpool firmly in contention in the race for European qualification.