Liverpool handed Manchester City a resounding defeat at the Etihad Stadium, winning 2-0, and firmly establishing their position at the top of the Premier League.
The match on February 23, 2025, highlighted Liverpool's attacking prowess and defensive solidity, making it their first victory at Manchester City’s home ground since 2015. The defeat was simultaneously alarming for City, who struggled to convert chances without their star striker Erling Haaland, sidelined due to injury.
Mohamed Salah opened the scoring with a deflected shot following a set piece executed perfectly from close range. Dominik Szoboszlai tallied on the scoresheet, showcasing his remarkable form as he capped off Liverpool's triumph with the second goal, sealing what many saw as a decisive statement victory.
City began the match with intent, but it was Liverpool who quickly asserted control. Salah, having recently returned from injury, looked sharp and inspired. The first goal arrived from their incredibly astute corner routine, which set the tone early on. Szoboszlai played it back across the box to allow Salah to connect, whose low shot found the net after diverting off Nathan Aké. It marked the start of what would be Liverpool's comprehensive display.
Despite the setback, City fought back and nearly found the equalizer from Omar Marmoush, who saw his would-be goal ruled out for offside. This decision seemed to drain the momentum from the City players as Liverpool continued to maintain their lead.
Szoboszlai then turned defense to attack effortlessly, and shortly after Salah's momentous goal, he doubled the Reds' advantage. Salah was instrumental again, after darting through City's defense before setting up Szoboszlai to slot home. This pair of goals from Liverpool left City chasing shadows as the impressive form of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté helped to neutralize any significant threats posed by the home side.
The second half saw Liverpool adopt a more defensive posture, expertly frustrating City’s attempts to find their way back. City’s reliance on substitutes did not yield the desired results, illustrated by the unexpected withdrawal of Kevin De Bruyne after just 65 minutes, which raised questions about City's midfield depth.
Following the match, Salah reflected on the importance of the win, stating, "It is incredible. It is very hard to come and play here. They are a tough team and they have an incredible manager. I am glad we won the game. It is special. Especially when you are in the title race, it is incredible." His performance, which added to his season tally bringing him to 30 goals, confirmed his status as one of the league's elite talents.
Liverpool's 11-point lead at the top of the table signaled how much they intended to dominate this season. This marked their largest lead since winning the title during the 2019-20 season, and the fans had begun to celebrate, anticipating the possibility of another championship parade.
"Very convincing from Liverpool. Very professional, too," commented sports analyst Richard Jolly, as he noted the gap between them and City had now widened to 20 points. He and many others agreed the title is seemingly bound for Anfield, especially considering how few teams have overturned such significant leads this late in the season.
The day ended with Liverpool fans jubilantly singing their title-winning songs, confident of their chances. Meanwhile, Manchester City faces tough questions as they prepare for the final push of the season. Head coach Pep Guardiola will need to reassess strategies to regain form and challenge Liverpool’s commanding presence at the top of the league.
This match not only showcased Liverpool's potential to reclaim the title but also illuminated the challenges City now faces without their top scorer. The defeat places Liverpool on the right track for claiming their 20th league title, which would level them with Manchester United as England’s most successful club. Liverpool’s performance at the Etihad was nothing less than exemplary, leaving their fans optimistic for the remainder of the season.