Wild Second Half: Man United Steal a Point in Liverpool

Four wins in a row, followed by four losses in a row—the league leaders facing the 14th-placed team. But when Liverpool meet Manchester United, the form book often goes out the window. The struggling visitors held their ground at Anfield with notable determination, while Liverpool, under Slot, started less aggressively than they would have in Klopp's era.

The Reds were patient but still managed to generate a sudden period of pressure. In the 13th minute, Alexander-Arnold fired the first warning shot, followed by Gakpo missing by just half a meter (14’). Shortly after, Mac Allister’s volley was brilliantly saved by Onana’s foot (16’), with Liverpool’s opener seemingly imminent.

Højlund Misses a Golden Chance

Yet United, who defended deep effectively, weathered the storm and even created the better chances. Dalot’s cross found Amad, but his header from close range was poorly executed (20’). Towards the end of a first half full of moments, Højlund broke free and found himself one-on-one with Alisson, only to shoot straight at the Brazilian keeper (42’). A 0-0 scoreline at halftime was fair.

Second-Half Drama
Liverpool came out of the tunnel with renewed determination, but their focus lasted only a few minutes before sloppiness crept in, particularly at the back. After a turnover high up the pitch, Martínez surged forward and smashed a shot off the crossbar and in, giving United the lead (52’).

Salah, Amad—and Almost Maguire
The game wasn’t completely turned on its head, but the goal clearly rattled Liverpool. That was until Ugarte’s poor clearance allowed Gakpo to dribble past de Ligt in the box and curl a stunning shot into the top corner (59’). Liverpool not only equalized but also turned the game around shortly afterward. De Ligt was penalized for an unfortunate handball, and Salah coolly converted the penalty despite Onana getting a touch (70’).

At this point, everything pointed to a Reds victory, but United refused to give up. Their resilience paid off when substitute Garnacho found space on Liverpool’s right flank, crossing for Amad to tap in for the equalizer (80’).

As stoppage time unfolded, chaos ensued. Both teams pushed for a winner, fitting for such a high-stakes derby. Bradley nearly surprised Onana at his near post, while van Dijk’s header lacked power and direction (90’+1). Then, in the dying seconds, Zirkzee broke through, setting up Maguire for a golden opportunity from nine yards. While it may have been offside, Maguire missed the target entirely, firing over the bar (90’+7).