Manchester City keep title hopes alive with 2-1 comeback win over Liverpool at Anfield

Manchester City’s hopes of the Premier League 2025/26 title got boosted after the Blues emerged victorious over Liverpool with a 2-1 comeback win in the top flight match on Sunday 8 February, 2026 at Anfield.

Thanks to a stoppage time winner from Norway sharpshooter, Erling Braut Haaland, the Blues ran back home with all three (3) points.

After a goalless first 45 minutes, a superb free-kick from Hungarian versatile player, Dominik Szoboszlai, had taken the home side in front in the 74th minute, and it looked like the goal had secured the win for the reigning Kings of England, but, a beautiful leveller came from the visitors just ten (10) minutes later.

The Cityzens came back into the game in the 84th minute when midfielder Bernardi Silva converted an assist from Haaland before Reds goalkeeper, Alisson Becker, brought down Matheus Nunez to leave the supporters stunned.

And in the 3rd minute of additional time, Haaland ensured his penalty kick sealed victory for Guardiola’s side, however, there was still time for some late drama as City goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, was forced to save an effort from Alexis Mac Allister.

Szoboszlai was sent off the pitch after being shown a straight red in the 13th minute of additional time, and, Ryan Cherki’s goal in loss time which would have made it three (3) for Manchester City was disallowed by Video Assistant Referee (VAR).

With this outcome, Manchester City have now amassed fifty (50) points and moved six (6) close to toppers, Arsenal, in the standings, while, Liverpool remain on the sixth spot with thirty-nine (39) points.

The Reds are currently in danger of missing next season’s Uefa Champions League.

Manchester City’s comeback

The calculation that led to the comeback for Manchester City took some time. Haaland having the best chance of the first 45 minutes just a short while into the showdown, only for Alisson to damp down.

The Cityzens were the more active and possessive side in the first half, but, Slot’s Liverpool responded aggressively in the second half.

Egypt forward, Mohamed Salah, and Hugo Ekitike, were unable to convert good goal chances, and, Florian Wirtz’ efforts were booed by Liverpool fans. But, the hosts kept fighting until the goal from Szoboszlai shook the City net to put the Reds in front.

Haaland’s goal, his first at Anfield, proved the winner and handed the visitors maximum points, as well as, ensured Manchester City’s fight for the Premier League title stays alive.

Guardiola’s positive belief in Haaland prior to the match

At his pre-match press conference, Spanish manager, Pep Guardiola, had described Norwegian striker, Erling Haaland, as the “best striker in the world”, and the player known widely for his speed, strength and finishing prowess made sure to prove that with his winner in loss time.

On the title, Guardiola expressed optimism, saying, the way to glory is still very far; the Spaniard said, “a lot can still happen”, adding, “14 games” is a long journey in the Premier League.

Results

Photo: Striker Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring the winner for Manchester City in the Premier League match against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday evening