Liverpool ended Manchester City’s 23-game winning streak at the Etihad with a 1-1 draw in the clash between the Premier League’s top two teams.
In the 80th minute, Trent Alexander-Arnold clinched a crucial goal for Liverpool, earning them a 1-1 draw against table-toppers Manchester City.
This keeps Juergen Klopp’s squad just one point behind in the fiercely contested Premier League title race. Earlier, Erling Haaland had put defending champions City in the lead during the first half at Etihad Stadium, achieving the distinction of being the fastest player to score 50 goals in the league.
Liverpool took advantage after the Norwegian missed a chance to secure a second goal in the 79th minute. They swiftly launched an attack, with Alexander-Arnold firing a shot past City’s goalkeeper, Ederson.
This draw marked the conclusion of City’s incredible 23-game winning streak at the Etihad Stadium across all competitions under Pep Guardiola’s management.
Despite this, City remains at the top of the table with 29 points from 13 games, while Liverpool closely trails with 28 points. However, Arsenal can claim the top spot if they triumph over Brentford later today.
Haaland initiated the scoring with a precise shot from the edge of the box in the 27th minute. The goal stemmed from a misjudged clearance by Liverpool’s goalkeeper, Alisson, intercepted by Nathan Ake, who then set up Haaland for the opportunity.
Following the interception, it seemed inevitable that the ball would find its way to the net as Haaland pivoted and struck a powerful shot into the bottom corner despite Alisson getting a hand on the ball.
This landmark goal arrived in Haaland’s 48th game, breaking the record previously held by former Manchester United and Newcastle striker Andy Cole, who reached 50 goals in 65 games.
Haaland’s father, Alf-Inge, a former City player, celebrated exuberantly with a double fist pump in the executive seats. Meanwhile, on the field, surrounded by blue shirts, the player basked in the embrace of teammates after securing an advantage for the home team against a formidable title contender this season.
In the second half, his regret deepened as Liverpool capitalized on City’s missed opportunities. Alisson faced a close call 20 minutes before the end when he fumbled a corner under slight pressure from Manuel Akanji, allowing Ruben Dias to score.
Despite a VAR review, the referee upheld his initial call, granting Liverpool’s ‘keeper a fortunate free-kick.
Klopp looked to his substitutes’ bench, seeking a spark, and brought on Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, and Ryan Gravenberch.
Among the spectators was Diaz’s father, brought to England by Liverpool after enduring a harrowing experience in his home country of Colombia. Despite this, Diaz made an impact when he assisted Liverpool’s equalizer, defying the game’s flow with just 10 minutes remaining.
The Colombian player found Salah, who elegantly set up Alexander-Arnold for a stunning goal into the bottom corner.
Despite City’s vigorous pursuit of a late winner, their efforts were in vain. This marked their first home game without a victory since December 31 of the previous year.
Alexander-Arnold expressed the significance of securing a valuable point for Liverpool on the away turf, especially given their history of less favorable outcomes at this venue.
“We’ve historically struggled to secure positive outcomes here. This point is a definite gain,” Alexander-Arnold conveyed to Sky Sports.
“While our performance wasn’t exceptional, there were bright spots, and we had opportunities to clinch the win.”
Liverpool manager Klopp echoed the sentiment, acknowledging the merit of the result at a challenging venue.
“Securing a positive outcome in such a challenging location is significant. Their record of home victories could be more coincidental. It’s a place where enduring hardship is crucial. Their quality and seamless coordination demand acute readiness and awareness of player positioning.”
Pep Guardiola, the City boss, reflected on the team’s performance, acknowledging the potential for a win had they played exceptionally today. Despite this, he recognized their performance as merely okay.
Guardiola expressed satisfaction with the team’s display but not with the outcome. Speaking to Sky Sports, he praised their excellent performance against an outstanding opponent, emphasizing their quality play across all game areas, including defense, build-up play, and limiting the opposition’s shots on target.
He highlighted Erling’s exceptional abilities, praising his goal and acknowledging his threat with a headed opportunity.
“The performance was truly exceptional, and I’m thrilled about it. Even after all these years, maintaining that level of performance and operation gives us plenty to be proud of.”
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