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Introduction
Liverpool delivered a statement victory at the Etihad Stadium, defeating Manchester City 2-0 to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table to 11 points. Goals from Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai in the first half secured the win, strengthening Arne Slot’s side’s position as title favorites.
With Arsenal still having a game in hand, Liverpool took a massive step towards reclaiming the league crown with a performance full of resilience, attacking prowess, and defensive solidity. It was a game that showcased Slot’s tactical intelligence, Salah’s hunger for goals, and the collective discipline of the entire squad.
Salah Writes History as Liverpool Take Early Control
Liverpool started with an aggressive attacking setup, featuring Curtis Jones and Szoboszlai operating as double false nines, flanked by Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah. This dynamic approach created problems for Manchester City’s backline right from the start.
The Reds wasted no time in making their presence felt, as Jones had an early shot blocked within the first few minutes. Manchester City responded with a period of possession, utilizing Jeremy Doku’s pace on the left flank to create pressure. However, apart from a tame effort from Phil Foden, Alisson Becker remained largely untroubled.
The deadlock was broken in the 15th minute, and unsurprisingly, it was Salah who found the net. The Egyptian forward finished off a brilliantly executed corner routine after Alexis Mac Allister’s pass found Szoboszlai at the near post. The Hungarian midfielder intelligently flicked the ball into Salah’s path, and with a slight deflection, he calmly slotted home his 30th goal of the season.
The goal also marked Salah’s 241st strike for Liverpool, drawing him level with Gordon Hodgson as the club’s third all-time leading goalscorer. His relentless consistency in front of goal continues to etch his name deeper into Liverpool’s rich history.
Szoboszlai Doubles the Lead with a Cool Finish
With the momentum firmly on Liverpool’s side, the visitors continued to push forward. A sweeping team move nearly saw Trent Alexander-Arnold provide a decisive pass, but Manchester City managed to clear the danger.
The Reds’ relentless pressure paid off once again, as Salah turned provider for Dominik Szoboszlai in the 35th minute. Alexander-Arnold initiated the move with a precise pass to Salah, who used his dribbling ability to beat his marker before setting up Szoboszlai. The Hungarian took a composed first touch before wrong-footing Ederson with a clever left-footed finish to double Liverpool’s advantage.
Manchester City, struggling to find their rhythm, were left stunned as Liverpool dominated proceedings at the Etihad, a venue where they had not won a league game since Jürgen Klopp’s first visit in 2015.
VAR Drama and City’s Response in the Second Half
Liverpool began the second half in control, and they thought they had put the game beyond doubt when Curtis Jones found the net. However, VAR intervened, ruling Szoboszlai offside in the buildup, denying the Reds a third goal.
The disallowed goal ignited some life into Manchester City, who mounted a stronger response. Omar Marmoush, who had also seen a goal ruled out for offside earlier, tested Alisson with a stretching save as Guardiola’s side attempted to claw their way back into the contest.
Despite their brief resurgence, Liverpool remained the sharper attacking force. Diaz nearly made it three with a stunning curling effort, but Ederson produced a superb fingertip save to keep City in the game.
Liverpool Shut Down City’s Late Efforts
As the game entered the final stages, Slot made tactical changes to ensure Liverpool saw out the victory. Wataru Endo and Kostas Tsimikas were introduced, allowing the Reds to sit deeper and absorb City’s attacking attempts.
Despite Pep Guardiola’s best efforts, the reigning champions struggled to break down Liverpool’s resolute defense, with Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté standing tall at the back.
The Reds nearly added a third in the dying moments, as Salah and Szoboszlai combined once more. Salah’s perfectly weighted pass sent Szoboszlai through on goal, but Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov made a last-ditch block to deny him.
The final whistle confirmed a historic victory for Liverpool, marking their first league triumph at the Etihad in nearly a decade.
Standout Performances
Mohamed Salah
A goal, an assist, and yet another piece of history. Salah proved once again why he is Liverpool’s talisman, producing a performance filled with intelligence, composure, and clinical finishing.
Dominik Szoboszlai
One of Liverpool’s biggest revelations this season, Szoboszlai controlled the midfield and showed his attacking instincts with a well-taken goal. His movement and link-up play with Salah were crucial to Liverpool’s success.
Virgil van Dijk & Ibrahima Konaté
The center-back duo nullified City’s attacking threats, especially keeping Omar Marmoush quiet throughout the game. Their leadership at the back played a vital role in securing a clean sheet.
Conclusion
With this win, Liverpool have taken a commanding 11-point lead at the top of the Premier League table. While Arsenal still hold a game in hand, this result sends a powerful message to their title rivals.
Arne Slot’s side has demonstrated their ability to win high-stakes matches away from home, showcasing their attacking brilliance and defensive resilience. With Salah in record-breaking form and Szoboszlai proving to be a key asset, Liverpool are looking stronger than ever in their pursuit of Premier League glory.
Up next, the Reds will aim to maintain their momentum as they prepare for another crucial fixture. With confidence sky-high, Liverpool fans can dare to dream of another league title.
Final Score: Manchester City 0-2 Liverpool
Goalscorers: Mohamed Salah (15’), Dominik Szoboszlai (35’)
Can Liverpool go all the way and reclaim the Premier League crown? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com