Diogo Jota has scored 65 goals for Liverpool, but fewer of those have been more meaningful to him than his most recent goal against Everton. For most of the Portuguese's career at Anfield, he has been loved by fans for his ability to take advantage of sharp opportunities. However, this season, Jota's "golden touches" have disappeared.
Jota's beautiful goal against Everton was his 9th goal in all competitions this season. However, this was only the 28-year-old's first goal since scoring in the 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest on 14 January 2025.
The fact that they have not scored any goals in 10 matches coinciding with Liverpool's elimination from the Champions League and losing in the Carabao Cup final has led to a debate about Jota's long-term future.
Once again in the first half against Everton, Jota struggled to make an impact, before opening the scoring with a brand-name cool finish, beating goalkeeper Pickford after the break. Jota's relief was clearly shown when he celebrated, along with the cheers from Liverpool supporters. They were delighted to see the Portuguese striker return at the right time.
"This is an extremely important victory, not only because it is a derby but also because after the international break, we will face 9 important matches. Therefore, starting with 3 points is very necessary. Hopefully this victory will give us more motivation for the rest of the season.
I always believe in myself. I believe that opportunities will come and I must be ready to take advantage of them. Hopefully this match will be the beginning of a good run of form for me, thereby helping the team. As I said, the three points today are the most important thing," Jota said.
Coach Arne Slot expressed his satisfaction with Jota after his performance against Everton. "I am very satisfied with him. He was close to scoring in the first half but I wasn't surprised they blocked that shot because defensively, they are an extremely strong team.
Jota also had 2 moments like that in the second half. One of them was blocked but then he found some space and scored. That is absolutely for him and for us, for our teammates, staff and fans," Slot said after the win over Everton.
