Liverpool delivered a commanding performance against Manchester City at Anfield, securing a 2-0 victory that widened their lead to 11 points at the top of the Premier League table. The scoreline flattered the visitors, as Liverpool could have easily scored six or seven goals in a dominant display.
Cody Gakpo opened the scoring in the first half, capitalizing on an incisive move initiated by Mohamed Salah. Despite numerous opportunities to extend their advantage, Liverpool struggled to finish their chances. Virgil van Dijk missed several opportunities from set pieces, hitting the post once, while Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai came close to beating Stefan Ortega.
Manager Arne Slot, who praised Pep Guardiola’s tactical ingenuity before the game, made astute lineup choices. Salah sealed the win with a composed penalty in the second half, a reward for Liverpool’s relentless pressure. The result highlighted Liverpool’s superior energy, organization, and execution compared to a lethargic City side.
Winners
Every Liverpool player excelled, with standout performances from Trent Alexander-Arnold, Joe Gomez, and Szoboszlai. Luis Diaz, in a relatively new role, and Gakpo, who netted the opener, also impressed. Slot’s faith in his players paid off, with Liverpool outplaying City in every department.
Losers
Pep Guardiola and his team struggled to respond to Liverpool’s intensity. With 11 points now separating the sides and over a third of the season gone, City’s hopes of catching Liverpool look increasingly slim. In contrast, Liverpool’s display showed no weak links, while City lacked the energy and cohesion to compete.
Player Ratings
• Caoimhin Kelleher (8): Solid but largely untested, with one nervy pass in the second half.
• Trent Alexander-Arnold (8): Brilliant passing, including the assist for the opener, though he faded late.
• Joe Gomez (8): A rock in defense, keeping Erling Haaland quiet.
• Virgil van Dijk (9): Dominant in both boxes but lost focus briefly late on.
• Andy Robertson (8): Intense and sharp, delivering key passes.
• Ryan Gravenberch (9): Combative and dynamic in midfield.
• Alexis Mac Allister (8): Quietly effective, orchestrating play.
• Dominik Szoboszlai (9): Tireless, with powerful shots and decisive runs.
• Mohamed Salah (9): Sublime assist, tireless effort, and a clinical penalty.
• Luis Diaz (8): Adaptable and effective as a central striker.
• Cody Gakpo (8): Scored and remained a constant threat.
This statement win not only bolsters Liverpool’s title credentials but also raises questions about City’s ability to recover from their slump.