In a showdown at the Etihad Stadium, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s late equalizer secured a 1-1 draw for Liverpool against reigning Premier League champions Manchester City.
Erling Haaland marked his 50th Premier League goal in just 48 appearances, providing City with a deserved lead midway through the first half. Despite their dominance, City couldn’t put the game out of reach against a resilient Liverpool side.
City controlled possession from the start, with Jeremy Doku’s pace creating opportunities. Alisson’s error allowed Phil Foden a shot on goal, while Liverpool’s strategy involved sitting back and seeking counter-attacks. A quarter-hour in, Mohamed Salah’s well-placed cross found Darwin Nunez, whose header lacked the required power, saved by Ederson.
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Alisson’s questionable footwork nearly cost Liverpool again, but the third time proved unfortunate as an errant pass led to City’s opening goal. Nathan Ake, receiving the ball from Alisson’s miscue, drove towards Liverpool’s penalty area before delivering to Haaland, who skillfully found the net.
City continued to dominate the first half, with Doku and Foden creating scoring opportunities. Liverpool gained momentum in the second half, and although they should have fallen 2-0 behind as Julian Alverez missed from 12 yards, they managed to stay in the game.
Jurgen Klopp introduced Ryan Gravenberch and Luis Diaz, aiming to shift the tide. City had a goal disallowed as Ruben Dias’ bundled effort was ruled out for a foul on Alisson. With Liverpool always a threat, Nunez forced a save from Ederson after Salah’s excellent work.
Liverpool’s equalizer arrived in the final ten minutes when Diaz’s wing play set up Salah, who then assisted Alexander-Arnold. The vice-captain’s precise finish from the edge of the box found the corner of the net.
Despite late chances for the hosts, Liverpool held on for an unexpected draw, leaving City and Pep Guardiola shell-shocked. While City viewed it as two points dropped, Liverpool celebrated salvaging a point from the Etihad.