Liverpool Beat Everton in First Merseyside Derby of the Season
Liverpool continued their perfect start to the season with a 2-1 victory over Everton in the first Merseyside derby of the Premier League campaign.
Arne Slot’s men came in riding high after a midweek Champions League triumph against Atletico Madrid, and they wasted no time asserting control. Mohamed Salah’s clever pass set up Ryan Gravenberch, who coolly finished after just 10 minutes. Hugo Ekitike doubled the lead before halftime, slipping the ball through Jordan Pickford’s legs.
Everton rallied in the second half, with Idrissa Gueye pulling one back shortly before the hour mark. But despite late pressure, Liverpool held firm to take all three points and stay top of the table.
Cody Gakpo Struggles in Derby Win
While Liverpool celebrated, Cody Gakpo endured a frustrating afternoon. The Dutch forward managed just one off-target shot, lost possession 11 times, was beaten twice on the dribble, and committed a foul before being substituted for Florian Wirtz in the 60th minute.
With big-money arrivals like Wirtz and Alexander Isak pushing for more minutes, Gakpo — on a reported £150,000 per week — faces growing competition for his spot. His current form leaves questions over whether he can keep pace with Slot’s ambitions for a title challenge.
Fans Voice Frustration
Supporters were quick to voice concerns over Gakpo’s performance on social media, with some of the strongest reactions including:
- “Slot needs to deal with the elephant in the room at some point (Gakpo).”
- “Gakpo is upsetting to watch this season, what happened?”
- “Alexis and Gakpo have been absolutely woeful today.”
- “Gakpo already ruined about 3 attacks.”
- “Gakpo is so predictable, change it up a little brother. Everyone knows your move.”
- “Gakpo so awful today…”
- “Gakpo, absolutely shocking again.”
What Next?
Liverpool remain flawless in terms of results, but Slot will know his side has yet to fully click over 90 minutes. If Gakpo doesn’t raise his game, Wirtz or Isak could soon get the nod to sharpen Liverpool’s attack.
For now, the Reds march on — still unbeaten, still top, but with one big question lingering over their forward line.
