Liverpool took a giant leap towards their long-awaited 20th English top-flight title after a dominant 2-0 victory over reigning champions Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. The Reds extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table to 11 points, dealing a heavy blow to Pep Guardiola’s title ambitions. With Arsenal’s shock defeat to West Ham, this win could be the defining moment in Liverpool’s championship pursuit.
Fast Start Puts Liverpool in Control
Arne Slot’s men entered the clash knowing that a win would give them firm control of the title race. Despite their poor recent record at the Etihad—winning just once in their last 15 visits—Liverpool started with intent and purpose. Their early pressure paid off within 15 minutes when Mohamed Salah capitalized on a brilliant flick from Dominik Szoboszlai to sweep home via a deflection off Nathan Aké. The away section erupted as Liverpool took a crucial early lead.
Manchester City attempted to respond and thought they had equalized when Omar Marmoush found the net after a slick pass from Phil Foden. However, the goal was ruled out for offside, frustrating the home crowd. Liverpool, expertly set up to defend and counter, made City pay again before halftime. Trent Alexander-Arnold launched a precise long ball to Salah, who broke down the right before setting up Szoboszlai for a superb, low finish. The Reds went into the break with a commanding 2-0 lead.
City Fail to Mount a Comeback
Guardiola’s City are no strangers to overturning a 2-0 deficit—having done so twice in recent Premier League campaigns—but there were no signs of a comeback this time. Liverpool remained disciplined and nearly added a third, only for Curtis Jones’ tap-in to be ruled out for offside. Ederson was also called into action, making a brilliant save to deny Luis Díaz’s curling effort.
Meanwhile, City struggled to create meaningful chances. Their attack, usually fluid and relentless, looked disjointed and out of sync. As the rain poured down in Manchester, it became evident that Liverpool was in complete control, shutting down any hope of a City revival.
A Major Statement in the Title Race
The final whistle confirmed Liverpool’s third-ever Premier League double over Manchester City and their most significant lead over second-placed Arsenal this season. While the Reds now shift their focus to a League Cup final and a high-stakes UEFA Champions League tie against PSG, City’s ambitions have been drastically reduced. With the title slipping away, Guardiola’s best bet remains to secure a top-four finish and a deep FA Cup run.
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Conclusion
Liverpool’s win over Manchester City could be the decisive moment in this season’s Premier League title race. With an 11-point lead, they are now within touching distance of their record-equalling 20th English top-flight title. On the other hand, City must now regroup and focus on securing Champions League qualification. As the season heats up, fans can expect more thrilling action—and with BangSports, they can make every moment count!
