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Red Devils Triumph: Man Utd Shocks Liverpool, Maguire Seals Anfield Crisis

Published 4 hours ago3 minute read
Precious Eseaye
Precious Eseaye
Red Devils Triumph: Man Utd Shocks Liverpool, Maguire Seals Anfield Crisis

Manchester United secured a significant 2-1 victory over Liverpool at Anfield, marking Ruben Amorim's first back-to-back Premier League wins as United manager and plunging Liverpool into a crisis with their fourth straight loss in all competitions. This triumph was United's first winning goal at Anfield since January 2016, a moment sealed by Harry Maguire's late header.

The match began with an electrifying pace as Bryan Mbeumo gave United a dream start, scoring after just 62 seconds, assisted by Amad Diallo following a pass from Bruno Fernandes. Despite this early setback, Liverpool gradually grew into the contest. Cody Gakpo, in particular, was denied by the woodwork twice before finally leveling the score for Liverpool in the 78th minute, finishing off a pass from Chiesa, which sent Anfield into eruption. However, United defender Harry Maguire capped a majestic defensive display by heading home a Fernandes cross in the 84th minute, securing the winning goal and silencing the home crowd.

For Ruben Amorim, this victory at Anfield represents a potential turning point after what has been described as an 11-month nightmare since leaving Sporting CP last November. Having endured a UEFA Europa League final defeat and guiding United to their worst-ever Premier League finish, his job prospects had been questioned for months. This win, the biggest possible result for his team away against the champions, not only provided the crucial three points but also showcased United's best performance under his charge. The team demonstrated improved organization and convincing defense, Casemiro's experience shone in midfield, and the attack, featuring Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Mason Mount, carried significant threat. Crucially, United withstood a fierce Anfield onslaught in the second half, a notable improvement from previous collapses under pressure.

Conversely, Liverpool's defeat deepened their slump into a full-blown crisis, marking their first four consecutive losses since November 2014. Despite the international break, the problems plaguing Arne Slot's side, particularly their defensive vulnerabilities, seemed to have intensified. Liverpool conceded 11 goals in the top flight this term, more than any other team in the top eight. Defensive frailty was evident through Milos Kerkez's struggles at left-back, who often left Virgil van Dijk exposed, and Ibrahima Konaté being outjumped for Maguire's winner. The absence of first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker, sidelined with a hamstring injury, was keenly felt, with deputy Giorgi Mamardashvili failing to deal with Mbeumo's early strike, though he later atoned with a save from Mount.

Liverpool's attacking profligacy also contributed to their downfall. While they struck the post three times, Gakpo's late miss and a surprising wide shot from Mohamed Salah, who typically thrives against United, underscored their struggles in front of goal. Questions are now being raised about Salah's form and confidence, with concerns that

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