Harry Maguire was the unlikely hero as Manchester United secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Liverpool at Anfield, condemning the Premier League champions to a fourth straight defeat across all competitions.
The England defender powered home a late header from Bruno Fernandes’ pinpoint cross six minutes from time, sealing United’s first win at Anfield since 2016 and piling pressure on Arne Slot, whose side now look a shadow of the team that stormed to the title last season.
Early Chaos and Controversy
The game exploded into controversy within the opening minute. As Virgil van Dijk, Bryan Mbeumo, and Alexis Mac Allister challenged for a high ball, the Argentine midfielder came off worse, lying flat on the turf. Expecting play to stop for a head injury, Liverpool’s defenders hesitated — but United didn’t.
Mbeumo latched onto a through ball from Amad Diallo, sprinted clear of the distracted backline, and slotted past Giorgi Mamardashvili, who might feel he could have done better. The goal, scored just 63 seconds in, left Anfield stunned and furious, setting the tone for a chaotic first half.
United’s Tactical Edge
Under Rúben Amorim, United showed tactical bravery. The Portuguese coach deployed his signature 3-4-3, with Amad operating as an adventurous right wing-back and Fernandes pushing forward to link with the attack.
It worked — at least in the first half. United targeted Liverpool’s left side, with Mbeumo and Amad repeatedly testing Milos Kerkez. Fernandes even came close to doubling the lead with a curling effort that grazed the post, while Liverpool were left ruing their luck after Cody Gakpo struck the woodwork twice.
Liverpool’s Frustrations Continue
Liverpool improved after the break, with Gakpo finally finding the net following a clever cross from Federico Chiesa. That equaliser seemed to spark the Reds into life, but they couldn’t make their dominance count.
Slot threw on Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike, keeping his attacking stars Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, and Gakpo on in search of a winner. Yet despite wave after wave of pressure, Liverpool were wasteful — and United made them pay.
Maguire Delivers the Knockout Blow
When Fernandes whipped in a teasing cross from the right in the 84th minute, Maguire rose highest to nod home the winner in front of the travelling Manchester United supporters. The goal sent the away end into raptures and left Anfield stunned.
Liverpool’s Crisis Deepens
Four straight defeats now leave Liverpool’s title defence in disarray. Confidence appears to be draining, and cracks that once seemed minor are now widening fast. Slot’s men were unlucky, yes — but also disjointed and increasingly fragile.
For Manchester United, however, this was a statement win. Amorim’s side showed resilience, tactical clarity, and fight — qualities they’ll need if they are to make this the turning point of their season.
