Liverpool vs Manchester City: Arsenal the real winners as Title rivals share points

Manchester City's Phil Foden entangled with Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister | Imago

Liverpool vs Manchester City: Arsenal the real winners as Title rivals share points

Ayoola Kelechi 18:58 - 10.03.2024

Manchester City threw away a first-half lead at Anfield to draw against their fellow title aspirants

Liverpool and Manchester City bolstered Arsenal’s chances of winning the 2023/24 Premier League after playing out a 1-1 draw to leave the Gunners top of the league standings after 28 game weeks. 

Manchester City’s first-half goal through John Stones was cancelled out in the second period by a penalty from Alexis Mac Allister in the second period. 

How it happened

The much-anticipated last-ever Premier League showdown between Jürgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola unfolded at Anfield, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter. As the final chapter in their league rivalry, both managers aimed to leave a lasting impression.

Guardiola's side asserted their dominance early on, showcasing control of possession and posing threats through the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden. Despite City's early prowess, the Anfield faithful provided an electric atmosphere, urging Liverpool to respond.

In the 23rd minute, City broke the deadlock with a well-executed set-piece routine. De Bruyne delivered a corner to the near post, where Nathan Ake's block on Alexis Mac Allister allowed John Stones to tap home, putting the visitors in the lead.

Liverpool seized an opportunity to level the scores less than two minutes into the second half when City gifted them a penalty. Ake's ill-fated pass to Ederson forced the Brazilian goalkeeper into a reckless challenge on Darwin Núñez, resulting in both a spot-kick and a yellow card for Ederson. Alexis Mac Allister confidently stepped up, converting the penalty to bring the Reds back on level terms.

The second half witnessed a flurry of chances for both sides. Luis Díaz squandered multiple opportunities to give Liverpool the lead, with his finishing letting him down. City's substitute keeper, Stefan Ortega, showcased his skills by denying Núñez just before the 70-minute mark, keeping the scoreline level as both teams pushed for a decisive winner.

In a match filled with drama, missed opportunities, and goalkeeping heroics, Liverpool and Manchester City ultimately settled for a hard-fought 1-1 draw. The shared points reflected the competitive nature of the fixture and marked the end of an era as Klopp and Guardiola concluded their Premier League managerial duels.

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