Liverpool’s push for a Champions League spot took a blow as Manchester City struck twice late on to secure a dramatic 2–1 victory. The reigning champions now face a tough battle to finish in the top four, sitting five points adrift.
The Reds looked set for a vital win after their standout performer produced a moment of brilliance to put Arne Slot’s side ahead. Dominik Szoboszlai smashed in a sensational long-range free-kick, leaving Gianluigi Donnarumma with no chance.
But Liverpool were unable to protect their advantage. Bernardo Silva was quickest to react to an Erling Haaland knockdown, slipping beyond the defence before poking the ball past Alisson Becker.
Deep into stoppage time, Alisson then collided with Matheus Nunes inside the box, gifting City a decisive penalty. Haaland calmly converted, sending his effort low into the bottom-left corner.
There was further late drama when Rayan Cherki appeared to score from near the halfway line, only for the goal to be disallowed as the referee instead showed Szoboszlai a red card for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity.
With Manchester United and Chelsea both claiming victories, Liverpool had gone into the game knowing they needed a result against Pep Guardiola’s side to keep pace. Instead, the defeat leaves them five points outside the top four and four behind Liam Rosenior’s team.
If Liverpool’s hopes of finishing in the Champions League places begin to slip away, they will be banking on the Premier League being awarded an extra qualification spot for Europe’s elite competition.
