Liverpool secured a resounding 2-0 victory against Manchester City on February 23, 2025, during their Premier League clash at the Etihad Stadium. With this win, Liverpool continues their incredible unbeaten streak spanning 23 matches.
Key players Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai rose to the occasion, both contributing significantly to the team's performance. Salah opened the scoring with a stunning goal just 14 minutes after kickoff, launching his left-footed shot high past City's goalkeeper from close range. This moment not only set the tone for the match but also showcased Liverpool's ability to capitalize swiftly on set-piece opportunities.
Manchester City started the match with notable energy, pressing Liverpool aggressively and constructing potential opportunities. Before Liverpool's goal, Phil Foden nearly leveled the score when he assisted teammate Mahmoud Marmush, whose effort, unfortunately for the home side, was ruled offside by the officials. This near-miss was indicative of City's struggle to convert chances against Liverpool's well-organized defense.
Despite their initial dominance, City found themselves two goals down when Szoboszlai scored Liverpool's second goal at the 37-minute mark. After receiving the ball from Salah within the penalty box, Szoboszlai demonstrated composure, controlling the pass with precision and finishing with style, slotting it past City's goalkeeper Ederson. This goal was pivotal, extending Liverpool’s lead to 2-0 going onto the halftime break.
Entering the second half, City attempted to regain control of the game. They fought relentlessly to find the net, pushing forward with numerous attacking plays. Liverpool's defense, led by Virgil van Dijk, stood firm, thwarting several attempts and maintaining composure amid pressure.
Not to be outdone, Salah orchestrated another significant moment when he broke free and executed a brilliant run down the left. He found Szoboszlai again, who looked set to score Liverpool’s third goal. Yet, this effort was also ruled out as VAR flagged him for offside, illustrating the fine margins of the game.
Although City continued to press, hopeful of finding their way onto the scoresheet, they were unable to manage any successful shot past Liverpool's goalkeeper Alisson, who was pivotal with his saves. Liverpool’s substitutions, including the introduction of Wataru Endo, proved instrumental, as he brought vitality and defensive assurance to the midfield.
Despite Manchester City's relentless efforts, including substitutions meant to bring fresh legs and creativity, the game concluded without any breakthrough for the hosts. City's attack felt hollow without the presence of prolific striker Erling Haaland, who was sidelined due to injury.
Upon the final whistle, the score remained 2-0, preventing Manchester City from breaking Liverpool’s stronghold at the top of the Premier League table. This marked another significant achievement for Liverpool as they confounded critics and showcased their dominance with strategic brilliance and impactful teamwork.
Salah, reflecting on the match, stated, “We took our chances well. It was pivotal to stay organized, and we did just this.” Szoboszlai echoed his sentiments, mentioning, “It's great to win here. We played smart, keeping our composure under pressure.”
With this victory, Liverpool certainly reaffirmed their status as title contenders and quelled any talk of their recent slip-ups. Now, with newfound momentum, they are set to face Newcastle United at home on February 26—a match they will approach with confidence and determination to bolster their unbeaten run.