Liverpool and Manchester City, title contenders, shared the spoils in a thrilling 1-1 draw at Anfield on Sunday.
In what is likely the final Premier League clash between managers Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola, the match unfolded as a vintage encounter dominated by Liverpool. Despite falling behind to a John Stones finish in the first half, Liverpool leveled the score with an Alexis Mac Allister penalty shortly after halftime. Despite numerous chances, Liverpool couldn’t secure a win, settling for a point and allowing Arsenal to top the table at the weekend’s end.
The significant team news revealed Mohamed Salah on the bench due to fitness concerns, while Ibrahima Konate was absent from the squad. Youngster Jarell Quansah started alongside Virgil van Dijk. Guardiola, opting to bench Ruben Dias, saw his side start strong, taming Anfield with composed possession and slick transitions.
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Liverpool, known for its fervent atmosphere, came alive with successful pressing sequences. City, however, struck first with a brilliant set-piece routine, as Stones squeezed in De Bruyne’s corner. The first half saw chances for both teams in an end-to-end duel, with Liverpool responding via Szoboszlai and Diaz. City’s Walker missed connecting with De Bruyne just before halftime.
City’s second-half start took a hit as Ederson’s short pass led to a penalty after he fouled Nunez. Mac Allister converted, leveling the score. Liverpool, fueled by Anfield’s energy, created chances at will, with Salah entering the fray. Despite a golden opportunity for Diaz, City struggled to regain control.
Guardiola made a double change, withdrawing a fiery De Bruyne, providing some stability but limiting their attacking threat. The game hung in the balance, and Doku emerged as the protagonist, crashing the post and sparking controversy with a challenge on Mac Allister in the City box at the end.