“Unraveling the Mystery: Why Luis Diaz Wasn’t Offside in Diogo Jota’s Goal Against Everton”
“The Truth Behind Luis Diaz’s Onside Status in Jota’s Goal Against Everton”
Diogo Jota’s pivotal goal against Everton has moved Liverpool a step closer to clinching the 2024-25 Premier League title. With a commanding 12-point advantage over Arsenal and only eight matches remaining, the Reds are on the brink of securing their historic 20th league title.
Yet, Everton manager David Moyes believes the goal should have been disallowed, arguing that Luis Diaz was offside during the build-up. “That goal was offside, and it turned the game,” Moyes told Sky Sports, as per the Daily Mail.
Diaz’s presence, from an offside position, forces Tarkwoski to make an action he wouldn’t do without him there. How has that been missed?
— FollowEverton – Everton Fan TV (@FollowEverton) April 2, 2025
Moyes expanded on his viewpoint: “Diaz, standing behind Tarkowski, interferes with him. It’s a straightforward offside call, and I’m confused as to why it wasn’t flagged.”
He continued in his post-match comments: “Yes, he was offside. I haven’t asked for an explanation, but I’ve made it clear that I’m disappointed.”
“It was an easy decision. Diaz came from behind. Not many managers expect favorable calls at Anfield, but this one should’ve been simple. He was in line, and the offside was obvious. I’m not sure how well the linesmen managed their flags, as there were some raised too early and some too late.”
“Unpacking the Decision: Why Luis Diaz Was Not Offside”
In their post-match analysis, Sky Sports reviewed the incident, with former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher stating, “Based on the rules, there was no chance this decision would be overturned.” Watch the full breakdown below:
"When you look at the rules, there was no way this was ever getting overturned"
The studio analyse Diogo Jota's winner and why it wasn't ruled out for offside 🔍 pic.twitter.com/VibcQVscLf
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 2, 2025
According to Premier League offside regulations, a player may be penalized if they:
Block an opponent’s vision, preventing them from playing the ball.
Contend with an opponent for control of the ball.
Attempt to play a ball that influences an opponent’s ability to act.
Make a move that directly disrupts the opponent’s control or play of the ball.
Further insights from the Liverpool Echo confirmed that following a VAR review, Stockley Park officials determined that Diaz did not interfere with Tarkowski’s ability to play the ball. Despite Tarkowski’s fortunate escape from a potential red card earlier in the match, the officials upheld the original on-field decision.
Liverpool’s 1-0 victory leaves Everton in 15th place with 34 points, a comfortable 14 points ahead of relegation-threatened Ipswich Town in 18th place.