Liverpool vs Manchester United Report

Scorers: Gakpo 59’, Salah 70’ (P); Martinez 52’, Diallo 80’

Manchester United earned a hard-fought point against Premier League table-toppers Liverpool in a pulsating 2-2 draw at Anfield.

The result saw United end their six-year goal drought at the iconic stadium, while Liverpool retained their lead at the top of the table despite being held in a second consecutive league draw.

United Start Positively but Liverpool Threaten Early

Manchester United arrived at Anfield with a poor record, having gone eight league games without a win at the venue—their longest run since 1979.

However, Ruben Amorim’s men started brightly, matching Liverpool’s intensity in the early stages and carving out a few half-chances.

Diogo Dalot came close to creating an opener when his cross found Amad Diallo unmarked, but the forward’s header failed to test Alisson.

Meanwhile, Liverpool’s attacking prowess was on full display, with Luis Díaz and Alexis Mac Allister both missing opportunities. Díaz fired over from inside the box, while Mac Allister’s low strike was well saved by André Onana.

Rasmus Højlund had the best chance of the half for United, racing through on goal only for Alisson to smother his effort. The goalless first half reflected the evenly contested nature of the match, with both sides showing promise but lacking a clinical edge.

Second Half Sparks into Life

The second half began with United continuing to exploit Liverpool’s right flank. Their persistence paid off in the 52nd minute when Trent Alexander-Arnold’s errant pass was intercepted by Lisandro Martínez.

The Argentine combined with Bruno Fernandes before unleashing a stunning strike into the top corner from a tight angle, giving United a long-awaited Anfield goal and a surprise lead.

However, Liverpool quickly responded. Mac Allister’s incisive pass found Cody Gakpo, who danced past Matthijs de Ligt and curled a precise finish into the far corner to restore parity just seven minutes later.

Late Drama as Garnacho and Diallo Combine

Liverpool took the lead shortly after the hour mark when De Ligt was penalised for a handball inside the box. Mohamed Salah, as reliable as ever from the penalty spot, converted despite Onana getting a hand to his shot.

The momentum seemed to swing in Liverpool’s favour, but Amorim’s substitution of Alejandro Garnacho proved pivotal.

The young Argentine injected pace and creativity, bursting down the left flank to deliver a pinpoint cross for Diallo, who swept home the equaliser to cap off a thrilling move. It marked a moment of redemption for Diallo, who had earlier missed a header in the first half.

Chaotic Final Stages End in Stalemate

The match turned into a chaotic end-to-end affair in the final minutes. Both sides created chances to snatch a winner, with Onana and Alisson making crucial saves to preserve the draw.

Despite the frenetic finish, neither team could find the decisive goal, ensuring a share of the spoils.

What’s Next?

Liverpool remain atop the Premier League table with their lead over Arsenal unchanged heading into the new year. Arne Slot’s side will look to regain momentum as they aim to consolidate their position in the title race.

Manchester United, meanwhile, can take heart from a much-improved performance and will aim to build on this result as they chase a return to the top four.

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Liverpool v Man Utd, 2024/25 | Premier League