Everton 2-2 Liverpool: A Fiery Merseyside Derby Filled with Drama, Controversy, and a Historic Farewell to Goodison Park

February 12, 2025, marked the end of an era. It was the last time Everton hosted their fierce rivals Liverpool at Goodison Park before moving to their new stadium next season. The build-up to the game was electric, as both sets of fans prepared for a battle that promised to be historic.

The stakes were high. Liverpool, leading the Premier League table by seven points, needed a win to maintain their advantage in the title race. Everton, sitting 10 points clear of the relegation zone, were eager to secure their top-flight status and deny their rivals a crucial three points. More than just points were on the line—this was about pride, history, and the right to have the final word at Goodison.

With the floodlights on and the iconic Everton faithful in full voice, the stage was set for an unforgettable encounter.

The match kicked off at a blistering pace, with both teams showing attacking intent. Liverpool, known for their aggressive pressing, took control early, pinning Everton inside their own half. However, it was the Toffees who struck first, sending the home crowd into raptures.

In the 11th minute, Everton capitalized on a set-piece situation. A whipped-in corner from Dwight McNeil found the towering Beto, who out-jumped Ibrahima Konaté and powered a header past Alisson Becker. The roar from Goodison Park was deafening, as Everton fans sensed a potential upset.

Liverpool responded swiftly, showcasing their resilience. Just five minutes later, a perfectly weighted pass from Mohamed Salah split Everton’s defense, allowing Alexis Mac Allister to slot home the equalizer. The momentum had shifted once again.

For the remainder of the first half, both teams had chances. Darwin Núñez tested Jordan Pickford with a stinging shot from outside the box, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin came close at the other end, forcing Alisson into a fine save. By halftime, the score remained 1-1, with everything still to play for.

Liverpool started the second half with renewed intensity. They pressed higher, dominated possession, and began to find openings in Everton’s defense. Their persistence paid off in the 73rd minute when Mohamed Salah once again proved to be the difference-maker.

A swift counterattack saw Trent Alexander-Arnold play a pinpoint long pass to Salah, who expertly controlled the ball, cut inside onto his left foot, and curled a shot past Pickford into the top corner. It was a goal befitting the occasion, and Liverpool’s away supporters erupted in celebration.

Everton, however, were not ready to accept defeat. Roared on by their passionate supporters, they pushed forward in search of an equalizer. As the clock ticked into stoppage time, it seemed like Liverpool would escape with all three points. But the drama was far from over.

Deep into added time, Everton won a free kick near the edge of Liverpool’s box. McNeil delivered a dangerous ball into the area, which was initially cleared but fell to James Tarkowski at the edge of the box. The defender unleashed a stunning volley that rocketed into the back of the net, sending Goodison Park into pandemonium.

As Everton players celebrated wildly, tensions flared. Abdoulaye Doucoure, in the heat of the moment, taunted Liverpool’s away fans, leading to a confrontation with Curtis Jones. The altercation quickly escalated, involving players from both teams.

Referee Michael Oliver struggled to restore order, eventually issuing straight red cards to Doucoure and Jones. But the drama didn’t end there—Liverpool manager Arne Slot and his assistant Sipke Hulshoff were also shown red cards for furiously protesting on the touchline. The chaotic scenes overshadowed what had been a thrilling contest.

After the final whistle, emotions ran high. Liverpool players expressed frustration, feeling that Everton had deliberately provoked them. Virgil van Dijk’s post-match comments added fuel to the fire:

“We all know this is their cup final. They celebrated like they won the league.”

His remarks did not sit well with Everton supporters, who saw them as dismissive. Meanwhile, Everton fans defended Doucoure’s actions, arguing that Liverpool had been equally aggressive throughout the match.

Liverpool’s complaints extended to the officiating. Some players and staff believed that the referee had lost control of the match, particularly in the final minutes when tempers boiled over. Meanwhile, Everton fans saw the result as justice—a fair reward for their team’s determination.

The result kept Liverpool at the top of the Premier League table, maintaining their seven-point lead. However, with Manchester City and Arsenal breathing down their necks, every point would be crucial in the title race. For Everton, the draw ensured they remained 10 points clear of the relegation zone, making their Premier League survival hopes more secure.