LIVERPOOL– In a fiercely contested Premier League encounter, Liverpool’s ambitions to climb to the top of the table were thwarted as they were held to a 0-0 draw by a defensively resolute Manchester United. This outcome marks the first time Jurgen Klopp’s side has dropped points at Anfield this season.
Liverpool, with Ibrahima Konate as the sole change from their last outing, unleashed an early onslaught. Anfield, buzzing with its largest crowd since the 1960s due to the newly redeveloped stand, saw the Reds win a corner in the opening seconds. Darwin Nunez’s header was initially saved by Andre Onana, who then denied Mohamed Salah’s close-range follow-up.
Liverpool’s pressure persisted, epitomized by Virgil van Dijk’s powerful header, which forced another impressive save from Onana. Salah, finding space courtesy of Ryan Gravenberch’s cutback, tested Onana again, but the United goalkeeper stood firm.
Manchester United, showing four changes under Erik ten Hag, including Jonny Evans and Raphael Varane, found their footing. Alejandro Garnacho’s breakaway chance was superbly thwarted by Trent Alexander-Arnold’s defensive prowess.
Liverpool responded, with substitute Cody Gakpo linking up with Salah, only for Onana to comfortably handle Salah’s curling effort. Alexander-Arnold’s own attempt narrowly missed, brushing the near post.
United, against the run of play, nearly took the lead when Rasmus Hojlund’s close-range effort was directed straight at Alisson. Salah’s continued efforts to break the deadlock were met with Onana’s acrobatic saves, highlighting a standout performance from the United goalkeeper.
In the dying moments of the match, United’s Diogo Dalot received two quick yellow cards for dissent, reducing the visitors to ten men. Despite the numerical advantage, Liverpool couldn’t capitalize, culminating in a frustrating draw.
This result leaves Liverpool in second place with 38 points, trailing leaders Arsenal by a narrow margin. Manchester United sits in seventh, closely trailing Newcastle United and slightly ahead of their next opponents, West Ham United.
The match showcased a classic defensive masterclass from Manchester United, underlining their resilience and tactical discipline. For Liverpool, the inability to convert dominance into goals raises questions ahead of their crucial next fixture against Arsenal. The draw adds another layer of complexity to the Premier League title race, with both teams left reflecting on missed opportunities.
