Liverpool maintained their perfect start to the 2025–26 Premier League campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Everton in the 247th competitive Merseyside derby at Anfield. Goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitike secured the win for Arne Slot’s men, while Idrissa Gueye’s second-half strike kept the contest alive until the final whistle.
The victory not only extended Liverpool’s unbeaten start to the season but also reinforced their credentials as strong contenders to defend their league title. For Everton, despite showing resilience in the second half, the result highlighted the gulf in clinical finishing and composure between the two sides.
This report provides a detailed breakdown of the encounter, the standout performances, tactical nuances, and the broader implications for both clubs as they continue their respective league journeys.
Team News and Lineups
Arne Slot made four changes to the Liverpool lineup that had edged Atletico Madrid in the Champions League midweek. Hugo Ekitike, Alexis Mac Allister, Conor Bradley, and Milos Kerkez returned to the starting XI.
Liverpool XI
Starting XI: Alisson; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister (Jones, 61), Gravenberch; Salah, Gakpo (Wirtz, 61), Ekitike (Isak, 67).
Unused subs: Mamardashvili, Gomez, Endo, Robertson, Frimpong, Ngumoha.
Everton XI (not officially published but reconstructed from match flow):
Pickford; Young, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko; Gueye, Dewsbury-Hall, Grealish; Ndiaye, Beto, Harrison.
Sean Dyche’s Everton entered the contest with a combative midfield unit and looked to use the pace and strength of Beto up front, supported by Grealish’s creativity and Gueye’s tenacity.
First Half: Liverpool Take Control
Gravenberch Breaks the Deadlock
Liverpool wasted little time asserting their authority. In the 10th minute, Ryan Gravenberch opened the scoring with a composed finish that showcased both his timing and technique. Mohamed Salah delivered a clever clipped cross from the right channel, finding Gravenberch’s forward run. The Dutchman struck first time, looping the ball over Jordan Pickford into the far corner.
It was a goal born of Liverpool’s sharp movement and Salah’s vision, underlining the attacking fluidity Slot has been nurturing. For Gravenberch, it was a statement of his growing influence as a box-to-box midfielder capable of both scoring and creating.
Salah Threatens, Gakpo Goes Close
Following the opener, Liverpool looked to extend their advantage quickly. Salah attempted an ambitious curler from distance that was narrowly wide, while Cody Gakpo volleyed into the ground after a swift counter-attack initiated from an Everton corner.
Everton, though shaken, began to settle. They had a golden opportunity in the 28th minute when Jack Grealish threaded a ball into Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, but the midfielder failed to keep his shot on target, letting Liverpool off the hook.
Ekitike’s First Anfield Goal
On the half-hour mark, Liverpool struck again, this time through new signing Hugo Ekitike. Gravenberch, once more at the heart of the action, received the ball from Mac Allister and delivered a sublime defense-splitting pass. Ekitike’s diagonal run pierced the Everton backline, and the Frenchman calmly slotted the ball through Pickford’s legs to double Liverpool’s lead.
It was a moment of composure from the young striker, who demonstrated why Liverpool had invested in his potential. The finish showcased both intelligence and poise under pressure.
Everton Fight Back Before the Break
Despite Liverpool’s dominance, Everton carried a threat. Beto lifted an effort over the bar from a promising position, while Gueye forced Alisson into action with a driven strike from distance. These moments served as reminders that the Toffees were not out of the contest, even if Liverpool appeared largely in control at half-time.
Second Half: Everton Respond but Liverpool Hold Firm
Gueye Halves the Deficit
The second half began with Everton adopting a more adventurous approach. Their efforts were rewarded in the 58th minute when Idrissa Gueye struck to bring the visitors back into the game. Jack Grealish sent a teasing cross into the box, Iliman Ndiaye laid the ball off intelligently, and Gueye rifled home from close range.
It was a lifeline for Everton, lifting their confidence and the away support at Anfield. Suddenly, the game had a different complexion, with Liverpool forced to manage the momentum swing.
Open Exchanges and Missed Chances
The goal sparked an open period of play. Everton pushed forward in search of an equalizer, which left gaps at the back. Salah almost punished them on the break after being picked out by Gakpo, but the Egyptian’s effort lacked the precision required.
Slot responded by making substitutions: Curtis Jones replaced Mac Allister to provide stability, Florian Wirtz came on for Gakpo, and Alexander Isak was introduced for Ekitike. The changes gave Liverpool fresh energy and ensured they could withstand Everton’s pressure.
Liverpool’s Defensive Discipline
The final 30 minutes saw Everton pressing but creating few clear chances. Alisson commanded his area well, while Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate held firm against aerial deliveries. Kerkez and Bradley also impressed with their defensive contributions, ensuring Everton were restricted largely to speculative efforts.
Liverpool managed the game smartly, controlling possession and slowing down the tempo when required. The Reds demonstrated maturity in game management, a vital trait for a side looking to defend their Premier League crown.
Key Player Performances
Ryan Gravenberch – The Match’s Architect
Gravenberch was undoubtedly the star of the show, opening the scoring with a composed finish before turning provider for Ekitike. His ability to transition from midfield to attack, combined with his creative passing, set the tone for Liverpool.
Hugo Ekitike – A Breakthrough Moment
Scoring in a Merseyside Derby is a dream for any Liverpool forward, and Ekitike delivered on his Anfield debut. His movement, composure, and clinical finishing suggest he could become a vital figure in Liverpool’s attacking setup.
Mohamed Salah – Constant Threat
Though he did not score, Salah played a pivotal role, creating Gravenberch’s opener and constantly stretching Everton’s defense. His influence remains central to Liverpool’s attacking play.
Idrissa Gueye – Everton’s Standout
For Everton, Gueye’s energy and goal were instrumental in keeping the Toffees competitive. He combined defensive resilience with attacking drive, showing why he remains such an important figure in their midfield.
Alisson Becker – Reliable as Ever
Alisson’s saves and composure under pressure were key in preserving Liverpool’s lead. He continues to be the foundation of Liverpool’s defensive solidity.
Tactical Analysis
Slot’s High-Tempo Philosophy
Arne Slot’s approach was evident from the outset: high pressing, fluid rotations, and attacking combinations. By starting Ekitike, he added pace and movement to complement Salah and Gakpo, while Gravenberch’s advanced role gave Liverpool another goal threat.
Everton’s Resilience and Direct Play
Sean Dyche set up Everton to absorb pressure and hit back with direct attacks. Their strategy nearly paid dividends after Gueye’s goal, but their lack of ruthlessness in front of goal ultimately cost them.
Game Management
One of the most striking aspects was Liverpool’s ability to manage the final stages. Slot’s substitutions were well-timed, ensuring fresh legs in midfield and attack while maintaining defensive organization.
Historical Context of the Merseyside Derby
The Merseyside Derby is one of English football’s most storied fixtures, and this was the 247th competitive meeting between the two clubs. Liverpool extended their historical dominance in the fixture, having enjoyed more victories than Everton across all competitions.
Anfield once again proved decisive, with the atmosphere inspiring Liverpool’s fast start and helping them maintain composure when Everton threatened a comeback. The victory also continued Liverpool’s recent strong record in derby fixtures.
Implications for the Premier League Title Race
Liverpool’s win sees them maintain their 100% record in the Premier League after five games, keeping them at the summit of the table. Arne Slot’s men are showing early signs of the consistency and resilience required to retain their title.
For Everton, while the defeat is disappointing, their spirited second-half display suggests they can compete strongly against other mid-table rivals. However, their inability to capitalize on key chances remains a concern that Sean Dyche must address.
Conclusion
The 247th Merseyside Derby delivered passion, intensity, and moments of quality, with Liverpool emerging victorious thanks to Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitike. Despite Idrissa Gueye’s goal giving Everton hope, Arne Slot’s side demonstrated control, maturity, and attacking sharpness to secure the three points.
As Liverpool continue their title defense, the derby win serves as another statement of intent. For Ekitike and Gravenberch, it was a day to remember—scoring and combining in one of the most iconic fixtures in English football.
Anfield once again witnessed history, and Liverpool’s march at the top of the Premier League table shows no signs of slowing down.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com