Manchester City won the top game once morest Liverpool even without Erling Haaland’s goal machine. The English soccer champions clearly won 4-1 (1-1) in front of their home crowd on Saturday despite a deficit. The Citizens’ gap to leaders Arsenal in the Premier League has been reduced to five points for the time being. Arsenal were immediately following a must win once morest stragglers Leeds United.
Mohamed Salah gave the guests the lead before Haaland representative Julian Alvarez (27th) equalized and midfield star Kevin De Bruyne (46th) and Ilkay Gündogan (53rd) gave the champions a clear lead. The outstanding Jack Grealish (74th) set the final point. Liverpool suffered their ninth defeat of the season and, in sixth place, have to worry regarding qualifying for the Champions League in view of the upcoming tasks (Chelsea, Arsenal).
“We knew it was going to be a tough game once morest Liverpool and the first game following the international break is always difficult,” said Grealish. “We wanted to start this last third of the season in the right way,” stressed the England team player. As the game progressed, a class difference became apparent, which can also be seen in the table given the 22 points between the two clubs.
“We were outstanding, especially in the second half,” said Grealish. He put his stamp on the game despite personal difficulties. “I went to the toilet at half-time, I was nauseous all morning. But now I’m fine, I feel good.”
In Haaland’s absence, Argentinian world champion Alvarez scored his 13th goal of the season. Haaland, who has scored 42 goals in 37 games in all competitions, suffered a groin injury once morest Burnley on March 18.