Manchester City 3–1 Liverpool | Premier League 2025
Manchester City strengthened their Premier League title credentials with a commanding 3–1 win over Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium, as Erling Haaland and Jérémy Doku delivered standout performances in a thrilling top-of-the-table clash.
From the outset, Pep Guardiola’s side looked sharp, pressing high and dictating the rhythm against a Liverpool team that struggled to cope with City’s intensity. The result not only keeps City firmly in the title race but also serves as a powerful statement to their rivals.
First-Half Brilliance from City
City took control early on, with Doku’s pace and creativity proving too much for Liverpool’s defence. The Belgian winger repeatedly found space down the left flank, creating chances and forcing errors. His incisive run midway through the first half set up Erling Haaland, who made no mistake with a clinical finish to open the scoring.
The Norwegian striker’s 17th goal of the season highlighted once again why he remains the Premier League’s most lethal finisher. His combination of power, positioning, and precision gave Liverpool’s backline little respite throughout the match.
Liverpool Struggle to Keep Up
Despite moments of promise through Mohamed Salah and Darwin Núñez, Liverpool failed to find their rhythm. Their passing in midfield was disrupted by City’s pressing, with Rodri and Kevin De Bruyne controlling possession and dictating the game’s tempo.
Jürgen Klopp’s men had their best chance when Salah tested Ederson with a curling effort, but the Brazilian goalkeeper reacted superbly to keep City in front.
Doku’s Electric Display and Álvarez’s Impact
Doku continued to torment Liverpool’s defence in the second half, his direct running and quick feet constantly creating openings. The 22-year-old capped a man-of-the-match display by assisting Julian Álvarez, who sealed the victory late on with a tidy finish.
Guardiola praised his team’s performance after the match, calling it “a complete display of control, intensity, and creativity.”
A Statement Win for the Champions
The win moves Manchester City back to the top of the Premier League table, underlining their determination to retain the title. With Haaland rediscovering his ruthless form and Doku emerging as one of the most exciting young wingers in Europe, City once again look like the team to beat.
For Liverpool, it was a tough night that exposed defensive weaknesses and the challenge of matching City’s consistency. However, Klopp’s side remains within touching distance, and the title race promises to stay wide open as the season progresses.