The most anticipated matchup of this Premier League weekend ended with an unexpected result and an even more unlikely hero at Anfield. With a goal from Harry Maguire, Manchester United overcame Liverpool's favoritism with a 2-1 score and left the Reds even deeper in a crisis that casts doubt on Arne Slot's future this season.
Manchester United struck early: just 62 seconds into the match, Bryan Mbeumo finished a move following a push-forward from Amad Diallo to give United a 1-0 lead. Liverpool grew into the game, dominated possession at phases and got multiple attempts on the woodwork (notably from Cody Gakpo, who hit the post three times). Gakpo eventually equalised for the Reds in the 78th minute, converting a cross from Federico Chiesa, but United responded: in the 84th minute, Harry Maguire headed in the winner from a well-floated cross by Bruno Fernandes.
Liverpool 1-2 Manchester United: Tactical Insights
Liverpool attempted to impose their usual structure—high press, possession-based build-up from back, full-backs pushing high. Their aim: dominate the ball, create overloads in midfield, and use wide play for attacking transitions. Sources show they created many chances and hit the woodwork multiple times. Gakpo created great chances and Liverpool dominated large parts of the game in possession and territorial control.
But, despite spending much of the match on top, Liverpool conceded very early and allowed United to stay in the game. Alongside, hitting the post three times is a sign of wasteful finishing and perhaps rushed final actions.
Under Rúben Amorim, United showed a pragmatic but sharp approach. Early on they hit Liverpool on the break and via the transitional moment. Scoring inside the first minute allowed United to settle into a less frenetic, more controlled mode. Despite Liverpool’s dominance, Red Devils held up well, defended set-pieces and transitions intelligently.
United were under pressure and responded. Liverpool, conversely, seem to be slipping in confidence (four losses). That has tactical consequences, and United’s management of the game phases (after early goal, after Liverpool equalised) shows smart tactical discipline and substitution management.
Liverpool 1-2 Manchester United: Summary
Shots: Liverpool 19, United 13.
Shots on target: Liverpool 6, United 4.
Passes: Liverpool 438, United 383.
Possession: Liverpool 53%, United 47%.
Passing accuracy: Liverpool 83%, United 75%.
Dangerous attacks: Liverpool 54, United 46.
Corners: Liverpool 6, United 9.