Liverpool surged nine points clear at the top of the Premier League after a commanding 2-0 victory over Manchester City at Anfield. The Reds, led by manager Arne Slot, secured their 18th win in 20 matches with goals from Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah, while City’s winless streak stretched to seven games, including six losses.
Liverpool’s Dominance
Cody Gakpo opened the scoring in the 12th minute, capitalizing on a precise cross from Salah. Liverpool dominated the first half, with Virgil van Dijk coming close twice, hitting the post once and narrowly missing another header. Salah sealed the win with a penalty in the second half after Luis Diaz was fouled.
Manager Arne Slot praised the team’s performance, saying, “The culmination of the energy we had and the energy the crowd had made this a standout moment.”
City’s Crisis
Pep Guardiola’s defending champions are now 11 points behind Liverpool and languish in fifth place. The pressure on Guardiola intensified as City fans expressed frustration, and the manager faced taunts from the Anfield crowd. Despite his six Premier League titles in seven seasons, Guardiola admitted the difficulty of turning the season around:
“Now it will be so difficult to repeat (winning the title) this season, but all the club will reflect together, to try and come back strong.”
City’s reliance on Erling Haaland was evident, as the striker struggled to find space against an imperious Van Dijk. Kevin De Bruyne had a late opportunity after a rare Van Dijk error but was denied by goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.
Liverpool’s Title Charge
The win against City followed a midweek Champions League victory over Real Madrid, underscoring Liverpool’s excellent form. Salah, who converted the penalty for his 13th goal of the season, reflected the team’s hunger for more significant achievements.
Liverpool remains firmly in control of the title race, with Arsenal and Chelsea trailing as their closest competitors. Meanwhile, City face an uphill battle to salvage their season as Guardiola’s worst managerial run continues.
