Maguire’s Late Header Secures First Anfield Victory Since 2016 in Thrilling Derby

LIVERPOOL 1 - 2 MANCHESTER UNITED

Goal Scorer

Team

            Minute

    Bryan Mbeumo

            Manchester United

                2'

    Cody Gakpo

            Liverpool

                78'

    Harry Maguire

            Manchester United

                84'

Manchester United clinched a monumental 2-1 victory over fierce rivals Liverpool at Anfield, marking their first win at the ground since 2016. The match, characterized by drama, controversy, and high-octane action, was ultimately decided by a powerful late header from centre-back Harry Maguire, who was justly named Player of the Match.

First Half: A Controversial Start

The contest exploded into life just 62 seconds after the whistle, albeit under a cloud of controversy. Manchester United's opener came from Bryan Mbeumo, who connected with an assist from Amad Diallo to shock the home crowd. However, Liverpool was left incensed after the goal was allowed to stand.

In the build-up, Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister went down following a collision with Virgil van Dijk and required treatment, eventually playing on with protective headgear. The referee, Michael Oliver, did not stop play as he reportedly missed the initial incident, and VAR was unable to intervene as no foul had been committed. This controversial decision set a frantic, aggressive tone for the rest of the half, with United holding their narrow, fortune-aided lead.

Second Half: Liverpool’s Relentless Pressure

The second half saw Liverpool launch a relentless siege on the United goal, desperate to level the score. The pressure was immense, with Cody Gakpo proving particularly unlucky, hitting the woodwork on three separate occasions. Mohamed Salah also missed two significant chances, reflecting a wider struggle for sharpness among Liverpool’s usually lethal attacking line.

The equalizer finally arrived in the 78th minute, providing what seemed like a turning point for the hosts. Substitute Federico Chiesa delivered a low cross into the box, and Cody Gakpo was finally rewarded for his efforts, tucking the ball home to make it 1-1. The atmosphere at Anfield immediately shifted, and it felt as though Liverpool was primed to push on for a winner.

The Decisive Moment: Maguire’s Triumph

In classic derby fashion, the momentum quickly reversed. Just six minutes after the equalizer, Manchester United delivered the knockout blow. From a precise set-piece delivery by captain Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire