Manchester United produced one of their most memorable performances in recent years as Harry Maguire’s late header secured a 2-1 victory over Premier League champions Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.
The win marked United’s first league triumph at Anfield since 2016 and handed Rúben Amorim his biggest victory since taking charge.
The visitors stunned the home crowd just one minute into the match when Bryan Mbeumo latched onto Amad Diallo’s clever flick to fire past Alisson Becker, giving United the perfect start. Liverpool responded with relentless pressure, dominating possession and forcing several fine saves from United’s new goalkeeper, Senne Lammens.
Liverpool’s persistence finally paid off in the 78th minute when Cody Gakpo levelled the score with a composed finish after a sweeping move that cut through United’s defence. The equaliser reignited the home fans’ hopes, but the game was far from over.
Just six minutes later, United struck the decisive blow. Maguire, rising highest from a Bruno Fernandes cross, powered a header into the bottom corner to silence Anfield and restore United’s lead, sealing all three points for Amorim’s side.
The result underlined United’s growing resilience and renewed confidence under Amorim, whose team defended resolutely in the closing stages to preserve their lead.
For Liverpool, the defeat extends their worst domestic run since 2014, despite enjoying 63 per cent of possession and creating numerous chances.
Sunday’s victory not only lifts United’s morale but also serves as a statement performance a sign that Amorim’s rebuilding project at Old Trafford is beginning to bear fruit.
Liverpool, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly if they are to revive their title defence, with questions mounting over their form and finishing.
United next face Brighton at Old Trafford, buoyed by the confidence of conquering Anfield, while Liverpool will look to bounce back when they travel to Brentford next weekend.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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