Liverpool vs Everton Late Equalizer resulted in Four Red Cards: what Van Dijk says
Follow the dramatic conclusion to the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park, Liverpool and Everton played to a 2-2 draw on February 12, 2025. The match was marred by a post-match altercation that resulted in four red cards, leading Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk to criticize referee Michael Oliver for losing control of the game.
The encounter began with Everton’s Beto opening the scoring in the 11th minute. Liverpool responded with an equalizer from Alexis Mac Allister, assisted by Mohamed Salah, who later gave Liverpool the lead in the 73rd minute. However, Everton captain James Tarkowski delivered a dramatic equalizer in the 98th minute, leading to heightened tensions on the field.
Following Tarkowski’s goal, Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure celebrated in front of the Liverpool supporters, which provoked a reaction from Liverpool’s Curtis Jones. The ensuing confrontation escalated into a melee involving players and staff from both teams. Referee Michael Oliver issued red cards to Doucoure, Jones, Liverpool manager Arne Slot, and assistant coach Sipke Hulshoff for their roles in the incident.
Van Dijk expressed his dissatisfaction with the officiating, stating, “We saw how they celebrated the goal, they have all the right to, but I think Doucoure at the end wanted to provoke our fans and Curtis didn’t think it was the right … . You know what happens when there is … .”
The Liverpool captain further commented on the emotional impact of conceding a late equalizer, saying, “It was over extra time and I … .” He acknowledged the significance of the fixture for Everton, noting, “We all know this is their cup … .”
This match marked the final Merseyside derby … concluding 131 years of shared history at the venue before Everton’s planned move to a new stadium. The emotional weight of the occasion was evident among players and supporters alike.
The draw leaves Liverpool at the top of the Premier League table with 57 points from 24 … maintaining a seven-point lead over second-placed Arsenal. They are set to host Wolverhampton Wanderers in their next fixture. Everton, currently in 15th place, will visit Crystal Palace in their upcoming match.
The aftermath of this contentious derby is likely to prompt discussions regarding match officiating and player conduct, underscoring the intense emotions inherent in such high-stakes encounters.