Liverpool edged closer to their second Premier League title in five years with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over West Ham United at Anfield on Sunday. The win kept the Reds in the hunt for the coveted trophy, capitalizing on Arsenal’s recent setback to extend their lead at the top of the table.

Virgil van Dijk played a pivotal role, scoring the match-winner with a commanding header from an Alexis Mac Allister corner, securing the Reds' 36th victory in 50 matches under manager Arne Slot. Liverpool now hold a 13-point lead with only six games remaining in the season.

Salah’s Record-Breaking Contribution

Earlier in the game, Mohamed Salah continued his incredible form, setting up Luis Díaz for the opening goal in the 18th minute. This assist marked Salah's 18th of the season, giving him a new Premier League record for most goal contributions in a 38-game campaign—45 in total. Salah’s latest achievement adds to his ever-growing list of milestones in what has been another standout season.

Related: Mohamed Salah's Record-Breaking Goal Contributions

West Ham's Close Calls and Alisson’s Heroics

Despite being behind early, West Ham didn’t back down. Carlos Soler was denied by Alisson Becker in a one-on-one situation, while Mohammed Kudus nearly leveled the game with a long-range shot that clipped the woodwork after a deflection from the Liverpool goalkeeper.

The Hammers’ search for an equalizer continued into the second half, with James Ward-Prowse’s corner finding Konstantinos Mavropanos, whose header sailed just over the bar. Liverpool remained resolute, with Alexis Mac Allister coming close to doubling the lead after his powerful shot forced Alphonse Areola to tip the ball onto the crossbar.

Late Drama and Van Dijk’s Decisive Moment

As the game entered its final stages, West Ham began to assert themselves. Jarrod Bowen was sent through on goal by Lucas Paquetá, but Alisson's reflex save thwarted any chance of a West Ham equalizer.

However, the game took an unexpected twist when Andrew Robertson inadvertently turned a clearance from Virgil van Dijk into his own net, gifting West Ham a lifeline in the 82nd minute.

But in typical Liverpool fashion, the Reds responded with a late flourish. Van Dijk rose above the crowd to head in Mac Allister’s corner in the 86th minute, ensuring all three points for his side and sending Anfield into raptures.

Liverpool’s Perfect Home Record Under Pressure

Liverpool remains unbeaten in their last 152 Premier League home matches when leading at halftime—a streak that dates back to 2009. This victory also strengthens their position as the league leaders, with Arne Slot’s men now needing just a few more wins to seal the title.

As the final whistle blew, the Reds had extended their lead to 13 points, putting them in prime position to secure their 20th league title with six games left in the season. West Ham, meanwhile, will be left to reflect on what could have been, as their push for survival continues.