Premier League live : Manchester City vs Liverpool – score and updates from Etihad Stadium

In a thrilling Premier League clash at the Etihad Stadium, Liverpool dealt a significant blow to Manchester City’s title hopes with a commanding 2-0 victory. The Reds extended their lead at the top of the table to 11 points, showcasing their dominance in a match that could prove pivotal in the race for the championship.

In Short

Salah and Szoboszlai shine as Liverpool outclass City

Mohamed Salah once again proved his worth as Liverpool’s talisman, opening the scoring in the 14th minute with a clever set-piece routine. The Egyptian forward’s clinical finish marked his 30th goal of the season, a feat he has now achieved in five separate campaigns for the Merseyside club. This impressive statistic puts Salah in esteemed company, matching the records of Liverpool legends Roger Hunt and Ian Rush.

Dominik Szoboszlai, Liverpool’s dynamic midfielder, played a crucial role in both goals. The Hungarian international not only provided the assist for Salah’s opener but also found the back of the net himself, doubling Liverpool’s lead eight minutes before halftime. Szoboszlai’s performance highlighted the depth and quality of Liverpool’s squad, which has been instrumental in their Premier League title chase this season.

The victory at the Etihad Stadium was particularly significant for Liverpool, as it marked only their second win in their last 16 Premier League visits to Manchester City’s home ground. This result not only strengthens Liverpool’s position at the top of the table but also deals a psychological blow to their closest rivals in recent years.

Manchester City’s struggles continue as title defense falters

For Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, this defeat represents a watershed moment in their season. The reigning champions have struggled to maintain their usual high standards, with injuries to key players such as Rodri, John Stones, and Erling Haaland taking their toll. The absence of these influential figures has exposed the vulnerabilities in City’s aging squad, prompting questions about the need for a significant rebuild.

Kevin De Bruyne’s substitution in the 67th minute symbolized City’s current predicament. The Belgian maestro, who has been a linchpin of City’s success in recent years, struggled to impose himself on the game. His departure was met with a standing ovation from the home fans, perhaps acknowledging that opportunities to witness De Bruyne’s brilliance in a City shirt may be dwindling.

City’s performance against Liverpool highlighted their recent defensive frailties. Prior to this match, they had conceded 37 goals in the Premier League this season, a stark contrast to their usual defensive solidity. This vulnerability has been a key factor in their inconsistent form, with the team having won just five of their last eight league games since Christmas.

Liverpool’s title credentials strengthened

Arne Slot’s Liverpool side demonstrated why they are considered the frontrunners for this season’s Premier League title. Their tactical discipline and clinical finishing were on full display at the Etihad, with captain Virgil van Dijk marshaling a defense that kept a clean sheet against one of the league’s most potent attacks.

The Reds’ ability to control the game after establishing their two-goal lead in the first half showcased their maturity and game management skills. This composed performance is indicative of Liverpool’s growth under Slot’s guidance, with the team having lost just one league game so far this season.

Liverpool’s impressive form is not limited to their defensive solidity. The team has now scored multiple goals in each of their last 13 Premier League games played on a Sunday, a streak that dates back to April 2024. This attacking prowess, combined with their defensive stability, makes Liverpool a formidable force as they chase their 20th English top-flight title.

Implications for the Premier League title race

With this victory, Liverpool have completed the league double over Manchester City for only the third time in Premier League history. This feat is particularly impressive considering City’s dominance in recent years and underscores Liverpool’s resurgence as the team to beat this season.

The result leaves Manchester City in fourth place, trailing Liverpool by a substantial margin. While there are still 11 games remaining in the season, the gap between the two sides appears increasingly difficult to overcome. City’s focus may now shift to securing a Champions League spot for next season, as well as potentially salvaging their campaign through success in the FA Cup.

For Liverpool, this win at the Etihad serves as a statement of intent. With an 11-point cushion at the top of the table and a game in hand over their nearest rivals, the Reds are in a commanding position to claim their second Premier League title in five years. However, Slot and his team will be wary of complacency, knowing that consistency will be key in the remaining fixtures.

As the Premier League enters its final stretch, all eyes will be on Liverpool to see if they can maintain their impressive form and clinch the title. Meanwhile, Manchester City face a period of introspection and potential reconstruction as they look to regroup and challenge for honors in the coming seasons. The clash at the Etihad may well be remembered as the day Liverpool took a decisive step towards Premier League glory in the 2024/25 campaign.