Manchester City delivered a commanding performance at the Etihad Stadium, defeating Liverpool 3–0 in one of the most anticipated Premier League fixtures of the season. From start to finish, City showcased complete superiority—outclassing Liverpool in intensity, structure, and finishing quality.

The victory pushes Manchester City into 2nd place, just behind league leaders Arsenal, while Liverpool drop to 8th after a disappointing display that saw them fail to register a single shot on target. The match also marked a milestone moment, serving as Pep Guardiola’s 100th match as a coach across four clubs, capped with a statement win.

Haaland Misses Penalty but Scores Minutes Later (29′)

Manchester City took early control of possession and tempo. Their pressure earned them a penalty in the first half, but Erling Haaland surprisingly failed to convert, sending his effort wide. However, the Norwegian striker quickly redeemed himself.

In the 29th minute, Haaland capitalized on a defensive lapse and slotted home the opening goal. The strike increases Haaland’s tally to 14 Premier League goals, extending his lead in the Golden Boot race.

Liverpool’s Equalizer Ruled Out

Liverpool briefly thought they had found a way back into the game when Virgil van Dijk headed the ball into the net following a set-piece. However, celebrations were cut short after VAR confirmed the Dutch defender was offside during the build-up.

The disallowed goal proved costly—Liverpool never regained momentum afterward.

Nico González Doubles City’s Lead Before Halftime (45+3′)

Just moments before the break, Manchester City struck again. In first-half stoppage time, Nico González finished a precise attacking move to make it 2–0. The goal gave City a firm grip on the match and added frustration to an already struggling Liverpool side.

City Dominate the Second Half and Doku Seals Victory (63′)

The second half was all Manchester City. Their midfield dominance suffocated Liverpool’s attempts to build any meaningful play, while City’s defensive structure shut down every counter-attacking threat.

In the 63rd minute, Jérémy Doku scored City’s third with a composed finish after a brilliant spell of buildup. The goal cemented the result and showcased the Belgian winger’s growing influence under Guardiola.

Liverpool looked deflated, lacking creativity and urgency. Their failure to record even a single shot on target highlights the extent of City’s dominance.

What the Result Means for the Premier League Table

• Manchester City rise to 2nd place, strengthening their title challenge as they chase Arsenal at the top.
• Liverpool fall to 8th, marking a concerning drop in form and raising questions about confidence and cohesion heading into the next fixtures.

Key Match Highlights

• 29′ – Erling Haaland scores after missing an earlier penalty
• Van Dijk header equalizer ruled out for offside
• 45+3′ – Nico González doubles City’s lead before the break
• 63′ – Jérémy Doku seals the 3–0 victory
• Liverpool fail to produce a shot on target
• Haaland’s goal extends his season total to 14, top in the league
• Pep Guardiola celebrates a milestone 100th game across four clubs

Conclusion

Manchester City’s dominant 3–0 win over Liverpool was a powerful statement in the Premier League title race. With Haaland firing, Doku dazzling, and City’s structure suffocating their opponents, Guardiola’s side look poised for another push toward the top. Liverpool, meanwhile, must regroup quickly after a humbling defeat that exposed tactical and motivational weaknesses.

Don’t Miss a Minute of the Action

The 2025/2026 Premier League season is up and running, and Matchday 11 is set to be unforgettable. From the raw passion of the London derby to the technical chess match at Villa Park, there’s something for every football fan.

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