Liverpool secured a vital 1–0 victory on the road against Sunderland, bringing an end to the Black Cats’ unbeaten league run at home this season. It was not a flashy performance, but it was one built on control, persistence, and discipline.

From the outset, the visitors dictated the tempo, keeping possession and probing for openings against a Sunderland side that defended with structure and energy. The hosts stayed compact, closing spaces quickly and forcing Liverpool to attempt efforts from range or rely on dead-ball situations to create danger.

Florian Wirtz emerged as Liverpool’s most threatening figure in the opening half. The attacking midfielder forced a strong save from goalkeeper Robin Roefs with a powerful strike from distance, before later rattling the post with a clever left-footed attempt after carving out space inside the area. Despite dominating territory and earning several corners and free-kicks in promising positions, Liverpool were unable to find a breakthrough before the interval.

Sunderland, though largely on the back foot, maintained their discipline and ensured the match remained goalless heading into halftime.

The second half saw the home side attempt to raise their intensity, pressing higher up the pitch and showing greater attacking intent. Yet, clear opportunities were hard to come by against a well-organized Liverpool defense.

The decisive moment arrived just after the hour mark from a set piece. Mohamed Salah delivered a dangerous corner into the six-yard area, causing uncertainty among Sunderland’s defenders. Virgil van Dijk rose above the crowd to power a header goalward, and amid the scramble that followed, Habib Diarra inadvertently diverted the ball over the line under pressure.

It was the first time Sunderland had fallen behind at home in league action this season, and they responded by pushing forward in search of an equalizer. However, Liverpool remained composed, keeping their defensive shape intact and managing the closing stages with experience and maturity.

There was concern late on when Wataru Endo, who had impressed while deputizing at right-back, was forced off with an ankle problem and needed assistance leaving the field.

Nevertheless, the narrow victory proved crucial for Arne Slot’s side. The three points boost their momentum and tighten the race for Champions League qualification, narrowing the gap to both Manchester United and Chelsea as the season intensifies.