Liverpool v Manchester United | Premier League | Match Highlights

Amad Diallo struck a dramatic late equaliser as Manchester United defied their recent dismal form to secure a thrilling 2-2 draw against Premier League leaders Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday. In a pulsating encounter that defied the wintry gloom and lived up to the storied rivalry between the two sides, United displayed a fighting spirit that had been conspicuously absent in recent weeks. Ruben Amorim’s embattled side, who had lost five of their past six league games, produced a performance brimming with courage and determination, giving their travelling fans a reason to believe in brighter days ahead.

The visitors had taken a surprising lead in the 52nd minute when Lisandro Martínez showcased both skill and audacity, lashing home a thunderous shot from a seemingly impossible angle. It was a goal that stunned the Anfield faithful and ignited hope within the United ranks. However, Liverpool, despite looking far from their best, responded with characteristic resilience. Seven minutes later, Cody Gakpo curled in a spectacular equaliser, capitalising on a clever pass from Alexis Mac Allister. The Dutchman’s finish was a reminder of Liverpool’s attacking potency, even on a day when they struggled to find their rhythm.

The pendulum swung further in Liverpool’s favor when a moment of controversy led to a penalty. Matthijs de Ligt was adjudged to have handled the ball as he blocked a header inside the box. Following a thorough VAR review, referee Michael Oliver awarded the penalty, much to the dismay of the United players. Mohamed Salah, as clinical as ever, stepped up and dispatched the spot kick with aplomb, sending André Onana the wrong way. At 2-1, it seemed as though Liverpool were poised to claim yet another victory over their old foes.

Yet, this was not the United of recent weeks. This was a team playing with purpose, grit, and belief. Substitute Alejandro Garnacho made an instant impact, delivering a precise low cross into the box. Amad Diallo, alert and composed, met the ball with a crisp finish, beating Alisson and sparking jubilant celebrations among the away supporters. The 80th-minute equaliser set up a frenetic finale, with both sides pushing for a winner. United’s Harry Maguire had the chance to seal a famous victory in the dying moments, but his shot ballooned over the crossbar, leaving the scoreline unchanged.

As the final whistle blew, it was United’s fans who left Anfield in better spirits, buoyed by a performance that hinted at the possibility of redemption. On a bitterly cold afternoon, they witnessed their team stand toe-to-toe with the league leaders, a stark contrast to the humiliation of March 2023 when Liverpool had inflicted a 7-0 drubbing on their archrivals. This time, United’s display suggested that Amorim’s tenure might yet bear fruit, even if the road to recovery remains long and arduous.

For Liverpool, the result was a minor setback in their pursuit of a record-equalling 20th English league title. With 46 points from 19 games, they remain six points clear of Arsenal and retain a game in hand. Jürgen Klopp’s side, while not at their scintillating best, demonstrated their ability to dig deep and find moments of brilliance when needed. Gakpo’s equaliser and Salah’s penalty highlighted the individual quality that has made Liverpool the benchmark in English football over the past few seasons.

The match began with Liverpool on the front foot, as Luis Díaz and Mac Allister tested United’s defense in the early stages. Onana was called into action multiple times, showcasing his shot-stopping abilities and keeping the visitors in the game. Ryan Gravenberch came agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock with a shot that skimmed off the sodden turf and whistled past the post. Despite Liverpool’s dominance in possession, United showed signs of menace on the counterattack, exploiting the high defensive line employed by their hosts.

Diogo Dalot nearly turned provider when he delivered a pinpoint cross for Amad Diallo, who failed to connect properly with his header. Rasmus Højlund also squandered a golden opportunity just before halftime, firing straight at Alisson after finding himself in a promising position. United’s wastefulness in front of goal was a concern, but their resilience in defense and midfield suggested that they would not crumble under pressure.

After the break, United’s positivity was rewarded as they capitalised on a rare mistake by Trent Alexander-Arnold. The Liverpool fullback, who endured a torrid afternoon, lost possession in a dangerous area. Bruno Fernandes seized the opportunity, threading a pass to Martínez, whose venomous strike left Alisson with no chance. The goal was a statement of intent from United, a reminder of their capacity to hurt even the best teams when given an opening.

Liverpool’s response was swift and emphatic. Gakpo’s goal was a moment of pure quality, the kind that underscores why Liverpool remain title favorites. However, their overall performance was disjointed, with several players struggling to impose themselves on the game. Alexander-Arnold’s struggles epitomised Liverpool’s vulnerabilities, as he was repeatedly exposed by United’s dynamic attacks down the flanks.

The penalty incident added another layer of drama to an already engrossing contest. Salah’s coolness under pressure was commendable, but it was Amad’s late heroics that ensured the headlines would be shared. The Ivorian winger’s goal was a testament to his composure and sharp instincts, qualities that could make him a key figure for United in the months to come.

As both teams reflected on the result, the broader narratives were clear. For Liverpool, this was a reminder that even title favorites are not invincible. For United, it was a glimpse of what might be possible with greater consistency and belief. The journey to redemption will not be easy, but on this evidence, Amorim and his team have the tools to navigate it.