Liverpool suffered a frustrating defeat at Anfield as Manchester United snatched a late win, leaving Arne Slot’s side to reflect on missed chances and shaky defensive moments. The match began in chaotic fashion when Amad threaded a perfect through ball to Bryan Mbeumo, who calmly finished after just over a minute. Slot protested that Alexis Mac Allister had gone down with a head injury in the build-up, but the referee played on as it was Virgil van Dijk who had inadvertently caught his own teammate.
United nearly doubled their lead soon after when Amad dazzled again on the flank and found Bruno Fernandes, whose strike shaved the post. Liverpool eventually grew into the contest, but their end product lacked bite.
Second-Half Fightback Falls Short
Cody Gakpo struck the post early in the second half, setting the tone for Liverpool’s renewed intensity. Minutes later, his persistence was rewarded with an equaliser, assisted by Federico Chiesa. However, Liverpool’s momentum was short-lived.
Six minutes after drawing level, they were undone by a textbook delivery from Fernandes. Harry Maguire rose highest and powered a header past Giorgi Mamardashvili to restore United’s lead. Gakpo spurned a late sitter, summing up Liverpool’s evening.
Match Summary
Liverpool dominated possession and racked up more attempts, but United showed greater ruthlessness in both boxes. Fernandes dictated play, while Maguire delivered one of his finest performances in recent memory. Slot’s side were aggressive, but defensive lapses and poor finishing proved costly.
Liverpool Player Ratings
Manchester United Player Ratings
Final Word
Liverpool will be encouraged by the volume of chances created, but concern will grow over their lack of clinical edge. Slot’s front line produced dangerous moments, yet composure deserted them when it mattered most. United, meanwhile, executed a pragmatic away performance anchored by Fernandes’ control and Maguire’s resilience.
Both sides showed flashes of quality, but only one carried the conviction of winners.