Watch: Virgil van Dijk scores last-gasp winner in historic first Merseyside derby at Hill Dickinson Stadium | OneFootball

Liverpool have secured a massive win against Everton courtesy of captain fantastic Virgil van Dijk. 

The Reds, still battling to secure a top-five finish under Arne Slot, knew anything less than three points would dent their UEFA Champions League hopes.

Virgil van Dijk scores stoppage time winner vs Everton

It looked like a routine evening early on when Mohamed Salah, playing his final Merseyside derby, fired Liverpool ahead with a trademark finish after clever work from Cody Gakpo.

But Everton hit back after the break, as Beto bundled home from Kevin De Bruyne Hall’s delivery, in a chaotic moment that also saw Giorgi Mamardashvili pick up an injury.

With tension building and points slipping away, Liverpool turned to their captain, and he delivered.

In the 11th minute of stoppage time, Van Dijk rose highest from a corner to head home the winner just like he scored the winner vs Everton on his debut in 2018.

Watch the goal below:

What this win means for Liverpool’s Champions League hopes

This victory is a monumental boost for Arne Slot’s side in what has been a turbulent season. Following Chelsea’s defeat yesterday, the pressure was on the Reds to capitalise, and they have done so in dramatic fashion.

The three points allow Liverpool to maintain their grip on 5th place, extending the gap between them and the chasing pack to seven points.

With the Premier League receiving a fifth Champions League spot this season, Liverpool are now in a commanding position to secure elite European football for next year.

While they still trail Aston Villa by three points for 4th place, this win provides the momentum needed for the final stretch of the season.

For a team that has struggled for consistency, the grit shown to win the derby could be the turning point that defines their entire campaign.