Anfield was buzzing for the first Merseyside Derby of the 2025/26 season, and Liverpool wasted no time showing their intent. The hosts struck first in the 11th minute when Ryan Gravenberch found space on the edge of the box and volleyed home after a clever cut-back from Dominik Szoboszlai. The early breakthrough ignited the atmosphere and put Everton on the back foot, forcing them to defend deeper as Liverpool dominated possession.
Liverpool doubled their advantage before the half-hour mark through Hugo Ekitike, who justified Jürgen Klopp’s decision to start him ahead of Alexander Isak. The young striker latched onto a perfectly timed through ball from Trent Alexander-Arnold and slotted past Jordan Pickford with composure. At 2-0, Liverpool looked in complete control, zipping the ball around with confidence and pinning Everton inside their own half.
Everton regrouped after the break and came out with more energy. Their efforts paid off in the 58th minute when Idrissa Gana Gueye unleashed a curling strike from distance that sailed beyond Alisson’s reach into the top corner, halving the deficit. The goal shifted the momentum, and Sean Dyche’s men began pressing higher, forcing Liverpool to retreat and defend more aggressively.
The closing stages were tense as Everton pushed for an equaliser, creating half-chances through Dwight McNeil and Beto, but Liverpool’s defence — led by Virgil van Dijk — held firm. Klopp responded by bringing on fresh legs, including Wataru Endo and Harvey Elliott, to regain control in midfield and slow the tempo. Anfield roared with every clearance and block as the clock ticked down.
When the final whistle blew, Liverpool had secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory to maintain their perfect start to the Premier League campaign. Klopp praised his side’s resilience but admitted that they must improve their game management after nearly letting Everton back into the contest. For the visitors, Gueye’s goal was a bright spot in an otherwise frustrating afternoon, but they left with renewed belief they could trouble the league’s best later in the season.
Watch and Download Liverpool FC vs Everton full match replay and highlights, At Saturday, September 20, 2025. The match played at Anfield, in Premier League, England.
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