Why Liverpool’s goal against Everton was allowed to stand

Diogo Jota’s match-winning goal in the Merseyside derby stirred controversy, with Everton adamant it should have been ruled out for offside. However, after a VAR review, the officials upheld the decision, much to the frustration of the visitors. The goal came just before the hour mark when Ryan Gravenberch played a pass forward, prompting Everton’s James Tarkowski to slide in and intercept.

Luis Diaz was standing in an offside position behind the defender but did not make any movement toward the ball. Liverpool quickly recycled possession, and Diaz’s clever backheel set up Jota, who fired past Jordan Pickford to send Anfield into celebration. Everton players, particularly centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, immediately protested, believing Diaz’s position should have resulted in the goal being disallowed.



"The players behind Jarrad interfere with him clearing it. It is an easy decision to give. I cannot understand any reason why that wasn't given offside,” said Moyes.

"I am disappointed. He was along the line and it is quite an easy one to give offside." Despite Everton’s protests, the goal was given following a VAR check.

The review focused on whether Diaz had interfered with Tarkowski’s ability to play the ball, which would have been grounds for an offside decision. However, officials at Stockley Park determined that Diaz’s presence did not directly impact Tarkowski’s interception, meaning the goal could stand. According to the offside rules, a player in an offside position must meet one of several criteria to be penalised, including obstructing an opponent’s vision, challenging an opponent for the ball, or making a movement that impacts the opponent’s ability to play.

In this case, Diaz did not breach any of these conditions. Liverpool manager Arne Slot acknowledged the contentious nature of the call but ultimately agreed with the officials’ decision. "It was not offside, according to the rules," said Slot.

"Do I like the rule? No, I don't like the rule. I hate that rule but the execution of the rule was fortunately for us today well done in that situation." Despite the controversy, Jota’s strike secured Liverpool a crucial win, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League to 12 points.

.