Key Takeaways:
- Liverpool claimed a 1-0 away win at Sunderland, with Virgil van Dijk scoring in the 61st minute
- The Black Cats endured their first home league defeat of the season
- This fixture marked only the fourth time in Premier League history with no English player in either starting lineup
Match Overview
Liverpool secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, courtesy of Virgil van Dijk’s header in the 61st minute. In challenging, rain-soaked conditions in Northeast England, Arne Slot’s side claimed a vital three points and moved up to sixth in the Premier League table, just three points adrift of Manchester United and trailing Chelsea by two.
| Fixture | Score | Goal Scorer | Minute |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunderland v Liverpool | 0-1 | Virgil van Dijk | 61′ |
First Half Analysis
Sunderland pressed aggressively in the opening stages, but their efforts produced no significant threat for the Liverpool defence. After weathering the initial pressure, the Merseyside club assumed control, launching a series of attacks that tested the home side’s resilience.
Florian Wirtz rattled the post during Liverpool’s period of dominance. Moments earlier, he had forced a save from Sunderland’s goalkeeper. Following the consequent corner, van Dijk directed a header over the crossbar. Although Salah and Wirtz fashioned further opportunities, the first half ultimately concluded without a breakthrough, with Liverpool having registered the greater threat in testing conditions.
Second Half – Decisive Moments
The balance of play shifted slightly after the interval, with Sunderland showing renewed purpose. Hume’s ambitious effort narrowly missed the target. At the opposite end, Ballard produced a crucial block to deny Wirtz from a promising position. Another Salah shot was thwarted after a deflection off Reinildo’s head.
The match turned in Liverpool’s favour when, from the subsequent corner, van Dijk rose highest to meet Salah’s delivery. Despite Diarra’s attempted headed clearance, the ball found its way into the net to give the visitors the lead.
Late Drama and Defensive Resilience
Shortly after the goal, Wataru Endo suffered an ankle injury while executing a vital tackle. The Japanese midfielder remained on the pitch momentarily but soon had to be replaced by Joe Gomez after being stretchered off. Sunderland pressed forward, creating half-chances through Le Fée and Hume, but Liverpool’s defence held firm.
Ekitike had a golden opportunity in the 79th minute following an excellent Robertson cross, yet the Frenchman’s header was off target. Liverpool prioritised control in the closing stages, with few scares for Alisson. Salah spurned a notable chance in added time to double the lead, firing wide after finding space in the Sunderland box.
