Liverpool secured a dominant 2-0 victory over Manchester City at Anfield, strengthening their position at the top of the Premier League. Goals from Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah, alongside a commanding performance from Virgil van Dijk, ensured the Reds triumphed over the fading champions.
Match Overview
Liverpool started with high intensity, putting City’s defense under immediate pressure. Virgil van Dijk almost gave Liverpool the lead in the 12th minute, with a header that struck the post. Shortly after, Salah provided an assist to Gakpo, who tapped home to give Liverpool the lead.
City improved as the match progressed but were unable to create real threats, managing just one shot on goal compared to Liverpool’s ten in the first half. Salah missed a clear opportunity to double the lead in the second half, but his penalty in the 78th minute sealed the win after Luis Diaz was fouled by Stefan Ortega.
With this victory, Liverpool now sit nine points clear of second-placed Arsenal and 11 points ahead of Manchester City.
Player Ratings
Goalkeeper & Defence
- Caoimhin Kelleher (7/10):
Had little to do for most of the match but made an important save to deny Kevin De Bruyne late on. - Trent Alexander-Arnold (8/10):
Provided key passes and was solid defensively. A constant threat going forward, nearly scoring with a powerful shot that hit the post. - Joe Gomez (8/10):
Stepped in for the injured Ibrahima Konaté and performed admirably alongside Van Dijk, handling City’s attacks well. - Virgil van Dijk (9/10):
Dominated both in defense and set pieces. He was imperious against Erling Haaland, and his leadership at the back was crucial. - Andrew Robertson (8/10):
Was dynamic on the left flank, adding energy and attacking support. Almost provided an assist with a pinpoint cross that Gakpo couldn’t convert.
Midfield
- Ryan Gravenberch (7/10):
Played his part in breaking up play and distributing the ball effectively. A solid midfield performance. - Alexis Mac Allister (8/10):
Played with composure, linking play in the middle of the park, and making intelligent passes to maintain control of the game. - Dominik Szoboszlai (8/10):
Created numerous opportunities, showcasing his range of passing and accuracy. His forward runs caused problems for City throughout the match.
Attack
- Mohamed Salah (8/10):
Assisted Gakpo for the opening goal and made no mistake from the penalty spot. Although he missed a chance to make it 2-0 earlier, he remained a constant threat. - Luis Diaz (7/10):
Was quieter in the first half but made a crucial impact by winning the penalty that sealed the victory. - Cody Gakpo (9/10):
Was superb throughout, scoring the opener and stretching City’s defense with his pace and intelligent runs. His performance was key to Liverpool’s success.
Subs & Manager
- Darwin Nunez (7/10):
Came on as a substitute and made his presence felt with high energy and pressure on City’s defense. - Jarell Quansah (7/10):
Added fresh legs at right-back, supporting the attack with a few driving runs. - Curtis Jones (7/10):
Created a solid chance and tested Ortega with a powerful shot upon his introduction. - Harvey Elliott (N/A):
Made his long-awaited return from injury. - Arne Slot (8/10):
The team’s intense start to the game paid off, and while the pace dropped, the result was deserved. His choice of starting Gakpo over Nunez proved to be the right one.
Next Match:
Liverpool vs Newcastle – December 4, 2024
SOURCE: Goal.com