Liverpool took a thrilling victory over local rival Everton in the 'Merseyside Derby,' getting one step closer to winning the Premier League.

Under the guidance of manager Arne Slot, Liverpool defeated Everton 1-0 in a home game for Round 30 of the 2024-2025 season Premier League, held at Anfield in Liverpool, UK, at 4 a.m. on the 3rd (Korea time).

With this, Liverpool recorded its fourth consecutive victory, reaching 73 points (22 wins, 7 draws, 1 loss) and widening the gap to 12 points over second-place Arsenal (61 points).

If Liverpool adds just 13 points in the remaining 8 matches, it can secure the championship regardless of other teams' results. This would be Liverpool's 20th championship in the Premier League and its return to the top after 5 years since the 2019-2020 season.

This match was evaluated as the biggest hurdle in the remaining schedule, the 'Merseyside Derby.' Liverpool and Everton are both teams based in Liverpool, Merseyside, and they engage in a fierce battle of pride every season. In this match, Everton created more threatening opportunities in the early stages, but Liverpool maintained focus and took home the victory.

The player who decided the match was DIO Jota. In the 12th minute of the second half, Jota intercepted a ball that Everton's defense failed to clear properly, broke into the box in an instant, and after fending off several defenders, found the net with an accurate right-footed shot. This goal marked Jota's first score in 10 matches and could be called a 'wonder goal' in its own right.

Liverpool showed almost perfect performance on this day. With the league's highest goals scored (70 goals) and the most clean sheets (13 matches without conceding), Liverpool continued to demonstrate overwhelming performance on both offense and defense, effectively stepping onto the final stair toward the championship.

Meanwhile, on the same day, Manchester City defeated Leicester City 2-0, recording 51 points (15 wins, 6 draws, 9 losses) and moved up to 4th place. This result pushed them ahead of Newcastle (50 points), which has yet to play.

The outline of the championship race in the Premier League is becoming clearer. If Liverpool maintains its current momentum, considering the number of remaining matches, there is ample possibility for an early championship, barring any surprises.

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