In a match that had all the makings of a classic, Manchester United stunned critics by holding league leaders Liverpool to a 2-2 draw at Anfield. Ending a four-match losing streak, United’s spirited performance not only earned them a crucial point but also raised hopes for a potential turnaround in their tumultuous season.
First Half: Liverpool Dominates, United Hangs On
The opening minutes were all about Liverpool’s relentless pressure. In the 14th minute, Cody Gakpo latched onto a perfectly threaded pass from Calvin Ramsay, but his effort whizzed past the post. Just a minute later, Mohamed Salah floated a delightful cross to Alexis Mac Allister, whose powerful shot forced a diving save from Andre Onana.
United, however, showed glimpses of resilience. In the 42nd minute, Alejandro Garnacho broke the offside trap and unleashed a shot from the left, only to see Alisson Becker make a vital save. The first half ended goalless, with United surviving Liverpool’s onslaught.
Second Half: Goals Galore at Anfield
The second half began with a bang. In the 52nd minute, Lisandro Martínez made the most of a brilliant through-ball from Bruno Fernandes, firing a narrow-angle shot past Alisson to give United a 1-0 lead. This marked United’s first goal at Anfield in seven years, and the Red Devils’ fans erupted in celebration.
Liverpool, however, was quick to respond. Just seven minutes later, Gakpo weaved through United’s defense after a clever assist from Mac Allister, slotting the ball past Onana to level the score at 1-1.
The hosts then turned the tide in their favor in the 66th minute. After VAR confirmed a handball by Matthijs de Ligt, Salah stepped up and calmly converted the penalty, giving Liverpool a 2-1 lead.
Amad Diallo Saves the Day
When it seemed Liverpool would walk away with all three points, United had one last trick up their sleeve. In the 79th minute, substitute Alejandro Garnacho delivered a pinpoint cross from the left, finding Amad Diallo, who slotted the ball into the net with a composed left-footed finish. The scoreline was now 2-2, and the game was wide open.
In stoppage time, United nearly snatched a dramatic winner. Joshua Shukes played a perfect pass to an unmarked Harry Maguire, but the center-back skied his shot over the bar, leaving the visitors to rue a missed opportunity.
Key Performances
- Amad Diallo (Manchester United)
- The late equalizer earned United a valuable point and ended their losing streak.
- Cody Gakpo (Liverpool)
- Scored a superb goal and remained a constant threat in Liverpool’s attack.
- Lisandro Martínez (Manchester United)
- Scored United’s first goal and held firm in defense despite Liverpool’s pressure.
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
- His calm penalty gave Liverpool the lead, showcasing his reliability in crucial moments.
Manager Reactions
Erik ten Hag (Manchester United):
“I’m proud of the team’s effort today. To come to Anfield, fight back, and end our losing streak shows the character we have. This can be a turning point for us.”
Jürgen Klopp (Liverpool):
“It’s disappointing not to take all three points, especially after taking the lead. Credit to United for their fightback, but we need to be more clinical in finishing games.”
Match Stats
| Statistic | Liverpool | Manchester United |
|---|---|---|
| Possession (%) | 58% | 42% |
| Shots (on target) | 7 (4) | 6 (3) |
| Corners | 5 | 4 |
| Fouls | 12 | 10 |
FAQs
Lisandro Martínez scored United’s first goal, and Amad Diallo netted the late equalizer.
The match ended in a 2-2 draw.
Yes, the draw ended United’s four-match losing streak across all competitions.
Liverpool remains at the top with 46 points, six points ahead of Arsenal, with a game in hand.
Conclusion: A Glimmer of Hope for United
While the 2-2 draw doesn’t erase the struggles Manchester United has faced, it does provide a much-needed morale boost. Ending a four-match losing streak and securing a hard-fought point against the league leaders at Anfield is no small feat.
For Liverpool, the draw serves as a reminder of the fierce competition in the Premier League. Though they remain at the top of the table, they’ll need to be sharper to maintain their lead.
As the Premier League season heats up, both teams will look to build on this performance—United to climb out of their slump and Liverpool to keep their title aspirations alive.
Final Score: Liverpool 2-2 Manchester United.
