Man City shock Liverpool at Anfield as Haaland’s late penalty reignites title race

Manchester City reignited the Premier League title race with a dramatic 2–1 comeback victory over Liverpool at Anfield in a thrilling second-half encounter. The hosts appeared on course for a crucial win when Dominik Szoboszlai fired in a stunning 30-yard free kick in the 74th minute to give the Reds the lead.

However, Man City responded with urgency and composure. Bernardo Silva restored parity 10 minutes later, finishing from close range after Erling Haaland cleverly flicked the ball into his path, with the effort slipping through Alisson Becker.

Deep into stoppage time, the Liverpool goalkeeper brought down Matheus Nunes inside the box, allowing Haaland to calmly convert the decisive penalty and seal the turnaround.

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Pep Guardiola’s side thought they had added a third during chaotic closing moments when Rayan Cherki scored from distance with Alisson upfield for a late corner.

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Yet, following a VAR review, referee Craig Pawson ruled out the goal after a tussle between Haaland and Szoboszlai inside the penalty area.

The result marked Guardiola’s second victory at Anfield in 11 attempts and secured City’s first league double over Liverpool since 1937.

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Statistically, Liverpool struggled to capitalise on their 1.21 expected goals, while Manchester City’s dominant attacking display generated 2.81 xG, a figure reduced by the disallowed late strike.

The victory moves City within six points of league leaders Arsenal, setting up a tense conclusion to the title race.