Liverpool has taken a giant step toward their 20th championship title after a commanding 2-0 victory against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. The win extends their lead over second-placed Arsenal (who have a game in hand) to 11 points, making the title race all but decided with 12 matchdays remaining.
The match started with a major shock for City, as star striker Erling Haaland was ruled out due to injury. Despite his absence, City initially looked sharper, with Phil Foden creating the first dangerous opportunity in the 8th minute. However, it was Liverpool that struck first, using a clever set-piece trick to break the deadlock. Dominik Szoboszlai laid off a short corner to Mohamed Salah, whose shot deflected off Nathan Aké, leaving goalkeeper Ederson helpless (14’).
With that goal, Salah made history, netting his 13th goal against Manchester City, more than any other player in history. The Egyptian star was instrumental once again in the 37th minute, assisting Szoboszlai for Liverpool’s second goal, sealing an emphatic victory.
Man City thought they had found a way back into the match when Omar Marmoush scored what seemed to be the equalizer. However, the goal was disallowed for offside (30’), further adding to City’s frustration. Unlike recent seasons, Pep Guardiola’s squad is nowhere near the title race, sitting 20 points behind Liverpool and now battling for Champions League qualification instead of fighting for a fifth consecutive league title.
Meanwhile, Liverpool is in dreamland. Since their only defeat of the season against Nottingham Forest on September 14, 2024, they have gone on an incredible 22-game unbeaten streak in the Premier League. Under Arne Slot, who took over from Jürgen Klopp (now Head of Global Soccer at Red Bull), Liverpool is proving unstoppable. Their first away win at City since 2015 all but secures the championship, and the title celebrations may soon begin at Anfield.
