By Okafor Joseph Afam
December 1, 2024

Liverpool delivered a major blow to Manchester City’s hopes of securing an unprecedented fifth consecutive Premier League title with a commanding 2-0 victory at Anfield. Goals from Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah ensured the Reds maintained their dominance at the summit while deepening the woes of the struggling champions.

Match Highlights

First Half:

Liverpool’s relentless pressing unnerved City from the outset, and their high-intensity approach paid dividends in the 27th minute.

A sublime passing sequence involving Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mohamed Salah culminated in Gakpo tapping in from close range, sending the Anfield faithful into a frenzy.

City’s lack of creativity was glaring, with Caoimhin Kelleher largely untroubled between Liverpool’s posts.

Second Half:

Pep Guardiola’s side showed marginal improvement after the break but continued to struggle without a playmaker in the mold of a prime Kevin De Bruyne.

Liverpool sealed the win in the 75th minute when Salah confidently converted a penalty after Ruben Dias clumsily fouled Luis Díaz inside the box.

A late mistake by Virgil van Dijk almost handed City a lifeline, but Kelleher’s sharp save denied Kevin De Bruyne, encapsulating City’s frustration.

Man of the Match

Mohamed Salah was the standout performer, contributing a goal, an assist, and an all-around display of leadership and precision. His decisive moments in attack and composure under pressure were instrumental in Liverpool’s victory.

Key Stats

Possession: Liverpool 52% – 48% Man City

Shots on Target: Liverpool 5 – 1 Man City

Pass Accuracy: Liverpool 84% – 88% Man City

Corners: Liverpool 6 – 3 Man City

What’s Next?

Liverpool’s lead at the top remains unassailable, with the Reds nine points clear of Arsenal and Chelsea. Meanwhile, Manchester City’s dismal season sees them slip out of the top four, leaving Guardiola with significant questions to answer about his team’s direction.

Arne Slot’s Liverpool continue to embody title-winning form, while City’s stumble at Anfield could mark the end of their golden era of domestic dominance. For now, the Premier League crown looks destined to reside at Anfield once again.