Van Dijk Header Seals Liverpool Win at Sunderland | OneFootball

Liverpool Break Sunderland Resistance with Captain’s Decisive Header

Liverpool delivered a composed and authoritative away display at the Stadium of Light, becoming the first side to win at Sunderland in the Premier League this season. In a fixture shaped by patience, territorial dominance and defensive diligence, Arne Slot’s men found their breakthrough through Virgil van Dijk, whose second half intervention proved decisive in a 1-0 victory.

Control Established Through Possession

From the opening exchanges, Liverpool imposed themselves on the contest. Circulating the ball with assurance and tempo, they recorded 68 percent possession in the first half, pinning Sunderland into a compact defensive shape. While clear chances were initially limited, the visitors’ control was unmistakable, with sustained pressure forcing Sunderland into reactive defending.

Photo IMAGO

Florian Wirtz emerged as Liverpool’s most inventive outlet during this period. The German midfielder tested Robin Roefs with a firm strike from distance on the half hour, the Sunderland goalkeeper reacting sharply to turn the ball behind. Moments later, Wirtz struck the post with a left footed effort before directing a header on target, again denied by Roefs.

Defensive Resolve from Hosts

Despite Liverpool’s command of the ball, Sunderland’s organisation ensured the match remained goalless at the interval. Regis Le Bris’ side restricted central space effectively, limiting Liverpool to efforts from less dangerous areas. Their attacking threat, however, remained minimal, reflected in just five touches inside Liverpool’s penalty area during the first half.

After the restart, Sunderland showed greater attacking intent. Skipper Trai Hume fired over as the hosts attempted to disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm, but the breakthrough arrived at the other end.

Van Dijk Delivers Decisive Moment

Just past the hour mark, Mohamed Salah’s corner caused chaos inside the six yard box. Van Dijk rose highest, his header nudged on at the goal line by Habib Diarra, the final touch carrying the ball into the net. It was the captain’s fourth goal of the season and a reward for Liverpool’s sustained pressure.

Injury Concern Tempers Victory

Liverpool’s evening was not without concern. Wataru Endo, making his first league start of the season at right back due to Dominik Szoboszlai’s suspension, produced a defensively assured performance. He won seven duels, the most of any player on the pitch, before suffering an awkward ankle injury shortly after the goal. The Japan international was stretchered off, with Joe Gomez replacing him following his own recent return from injury.

The win, only Liverpool’s second league victory of 2026, moves them within two points of fifth placed Chelsea, while Sunderland remain 11th after their first home defeat of the campaign.