Diogo Jota’s second-half goal earned Liverpool a 1-0 victory in a fiery Merseyside derby against Everton on Wednesday, restoring their 12-point lead at the top of the Premier League.
Everton’s captain James Tarkowski set the tone early with a reckless challenge on Alexis Mac Allister, which only earned him a yellow card despite calls for a red. The visitors had their chances, including a shot from Beto that hit the post, but Jota’s strike just before the hour mark proved to be the difference.
Liverpool now need just 13 points from their remaining eight games to secure a record-equalling 20th English top-flight title. The win also marked a return to form after their recent back-to-back defeats to Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle.
Tarkowski’s challenge on Mac Allister wasn’t the only controversy, as a goal from Jota was preceded by an offside incident involving Luis Diaz. Everton manager David Moyes voiced his displeasure at the decision, calling it an “easy one to give.”
With tempers flaring and tensions rising, including a penalty shout for Darwin Nunez, Liverpool held on for a crucial three points, keeping their Premier League title hopes alive.
