Manchester City continued their winning form as they thrashed Liverpool FC by a four-goal margin at Etihad Stadium in one of the most anticipated Premier League fixtures of the season.
Overview
The game started brightly, with both teams looking to assert their dominance early on. Liverpool went ahead in the 18th minute, thanks to a brilliant finish from Mohamed Salah, who cut inside from the right and curled a left-footed shot into the top corner.
City responded almost instantly, with Julian Alvarez tapping in a cross from Jack Grealish just five minutes later. The Argentine international’s goal brought the hosts back into the game and lifted the mood around the stadium.
Kevin De Bruyne then put City in front with a stunning free-kick, which went in off the post in the 35th minute. From then on, the match was completely one-sided as Liverpool failed to cope with City’s intensity and creativity.
Ilkay Gundogan extended the lead in the 72nd minute with a cool finish, after a brilliant run from Ferran Torres broke through Liverpool’s defense. Jack Grealish then added the fourth in the 82nd minute, with a well-placed shot into the bottom corner of the net.
The result means that Manchester City continue their fine form in the Premier League, remaining at the top of the table with 78 points from 31 games. Liverpool, on the other hand, are left to lick their wounds, as they slip down to fifth place with 53 points.
MOTM: Julian Alvarez put in a solid performance, scoring an important equalizer and creating chances throughout the game.
Lineups
Manchester City: Ederson; Akanji, Dias, Ake, Stones, Rodri, De Bruyne, Gundogan; Grealish, Mahrez, Alvarez
Liverpool: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, van Dijk, Robertson; Fabinho, Eliott, Henderson, Salah, Gakpo, Jota
Key Stats
- Possession: Manchester City (62%) – Liverpool (38%)
- Total Shots: Manchester City (16) – Liverpool (10)
- Shots on Target: Manchester City (6) – Liverpool (3)
- Corner Kicks: Manchester City (6) – Liverpool (3)