The Merseyside Derby, Liverpool's Favorite Playground

LIVERPOOL, FRIDAY — Liverpool seems to be on an extreme ride since the beginning of this season. They have consistently found themselves in high-pressure situations that trigger adrenaline, yet they manage to emerge with a smile. It is truly unfortunate for Everton, who will face Liverpool in the derby match in the English League.

If the field is a playground, then the Merseyside derby is Liverpool's favorite ride. Since 2014, "The Reds" have only lost points once to Everton at home. The only positive result for the rival team was achieved in 2021, when they won 2-0, during a match held without spectators at Anfield Stadium.

History has proven the significant influence of supporters and home advantage in the duel between the port city teams. This influence is particularly pronounced when Liverpool plays at home. Through the lens of historical bias, Liverpool is heavily favored ahead of hosting Everton at Anfield on Saturday (20/9/2025) at 18:30 WIB.

Not only history, but also the absurd positive trend is elevating Liverpool. The team coached by Arne Slot is on fire. They started the season with a series of consecutive victories across all competitions. Interestingly, all these results were achieved dramatically with winning goals at the end of the matches.

Recently, last Thursday, Liverpool won 3-2 against Atletico Madrid thanks to a dramatic goal from defender Virgil van Dijk in the 90+2 minute. In fact, the momentum of the match was not in favor of Mohamed Salah and his teammates. They had briefly lost a two-goal lead over Atletico.

It's difficult to explain the phenomenon that's happening in Liverpool's camp. Once or twice might be just luck, but five in a row isn't the same. Their wins always come after the 80th minute. Three of those wins came in injury time.

Slot stated that the winning mentality of the players is very influential. "But it's not just about mentality; it also shows how fit we are and how well we have prepared in the past few weeks. That is what enables them to push (the situation) until the end of the match," he said.

The variation of the "Si Merah" weapons significantly influenced the resurgence at the end of the match. Their late goals were produced from open play, free kicks, penalties, and corner kicks. The actors of victory ranged from 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha to Van Dijk.

Liverpool's weapons will become increasingly refined in the upcoming derby. New striker, Alexander Isak, has already made his debut in the Champions League match last week. He is highly likely to start as a first-choice player again. The record transfer holder in the Premier League appears to be starting to integrate well with the team's play.

A dramatic victory certainly feels more beautiful. However, relying on a winning goal at the end of the match is not a good strategy for the long term. If this continues to happen, it is very likely that Liverpool will stumble when they are less fortunate. They seem to be making things more difficult for themselves.

"We must strive to achieve victory in a simpler manner. Of course, it is remarkable to fight until the end, but when you are leading 2-0 and playing very well in the first half, that night should feel more comfortable," said Liverpool defender, Andy Robertson.

In contrast to their attacking prowess, Liverpool's defense, led by Van Dijk, raises significant concerns. They have conceded six goals in their last five matches. In three of those matches, they even let in goals after initially leading by two or more goals.

That weak point became an opportunity for Everton. In the boxing world, there is a term "lucky blow," which means a fortunate punch. Everton is not favored, but they can capitalize with a single lucky strike. The team coached by David Moyes is ready to take advantage of Liverpool's lapses.

Everton arrived with the loaned winger from Manchester City, Jack Grealish. The presence of the former England national team star has successfully elevated the team's level. He has produced four assists from just three starting appearances in the league. Everton remains unbeaten in their last four matches.

Moyes has never won at Anfield in his coaching career, whether with Everton, West Ham United, or Manchester United. Nevertheless, he is confident because Everton's defense is currently solid. They have recorded three clean sheets in their last four matches.

"A better team on the field tends to be more exhausting to face. The concentration of the players changes (at the end of the match). The point is, we have shown resilience in defense. Therefore, we will strive to maintain that," said Moyes. (AP/REUTERS)