Van Dijk’s header ends Sunderland’s unbeaten home run as Liverpool surge back into European contention | OneFootball

Liverpool became the first side to win at Sunderland in the Premier League this season as a Virgil van Dijk header secured a 1-0 victory at the Stadium of Light.

Arne Slot’s team produced a controlled away display and deservedly claimed three points that strengthen their position in the table.

The decisive moment arrived just after the hour mark when Mohamed Salah delivered a corner and Van Dijk rose highest, with Habib Diarra unable to prevent the ball crossing the line as he attempted to clear on the goalline.

Liverpool had dominated much of the first half, enjoying 68 per cent possession and pinning Sunderland deep inside their own territory.

Despite that control, clear chances were initially limited against a disciplined defensive structure marshalled by Regis Le Bris’ side.

Florian Wirtz came closest to breaking the deadlock midway through the first period when his powerful strike from distance was pushed away by Robin Roefs.

The Germany international then struck the post from inside the area before seeing a header saved as Liverpool intensified the pressure.

Sunderland offered little attacking threat before the interval, managing only five touches inside the visitors’ penalty area in the opening 45 minutes.

The hosts showed greater intent after the restart, with Trai Hume firing over from range as they attempted to disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm.

However, the breakthrough felt inevitable and arrived from a familiar source in Van Dijk, whose aerial presence proved decisive once again.

The goal was the defender’s fourth of the campaign and underlined his importance at both ends of the pitch.

Liverpool continued to control proceedings after taking the lead, limiting Sunderland to speculative efforts while probing for a second goal on the counter-attack.

There was concern for the visitors when Wataru Endo, making his first league start of the season at right-back due to suspension, fell awkwardly on his ankle.

The Japan international, who had won more duels than any other player on the pitch, was carried off on a stretcher and replaced by Joe Gomez.

Slot’s side managed the closing stages professionally, restricting Sunderland to half-chances as the home crowd searched for a late equaliser.

The result represents only Liverpool’s second league win of 2026 but could prove significant in the wider context of their campaign.

They reduced the gap to fifth-placed Chelsea to two points and maintained momentum in a congested battle for European qualification.

The defeat ends Sunderland’s unbeaten home record in the league this season and serves as a reminder of the fine margins at this level.