Everton took the lead early in the 11th minute after a questionable free-kick, despite no apparent contact, allowing Beto to capitalize on a quick delivery and score past Alisson. Liverpool quickly equalized with Alexis Mac Allister heading in a precise Mohamed Salah cross just four minutes later.
Mo Salah gave Liverpool the lead in the second half with a stunning first-time shot off his weaker foot. However, in the dying seconds, Everton’s James Tarkowski scored a dramatic equalizer in the 98th minute, three minutes past stoppage time, to make it 2-2. After a brief VAR check, the goal stood, and Goodison erupted in celebration.
The drama continued as Liverpool attempted a quick restart, but referee Michael Oliver blew the final whistle, further aggravating the visiting team. The situation escalated when Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucouré seemed to provoke Liverpool supporters, sparking an angry response from Curtis Jones, leading to a full-scale brawl between the players. Michael Oliver handed out red cards to both Doucouré and Jones, and Liverpool manager Arne Slot also received a red, despite only shaking hands with the referee.
With the draw, Liverpool maintains a seven-point lead over second-placed Arsenal, although a win would have significantly boosted their title hopes. The controversies and the explosive end to the match are sure to be the talk of the town, ensuring the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park is remembered for years to come.
