Haaland's Late Penalty Secures Win for Manchester City Against Liverpool

In a crucial Premier League clash, Manchester City claimed a dramatic 2-1 victory over Liverpool at Anfield on February 8, 2026, thanks to a last-minute penalty from Erling Haaland. This win rejuvenates City's title chase while leaving Liverpool struggling to maintain their Champions League ambitions.

The matchup was highly anticipated, with City trailing Arsenal by six points before kickoff. Liverpool, fresh off a 4-1 triumph against Newcastle that ended a five-game winless streak, needed points to keep their top-four hopes alive.

Both managers stuck to their strategies. Liverpool's Arne Slot fielded an unchanged XI despite ongoing injury issues, featuring Dominik Szoboszlai at right-back. City's Pep Guardiola made five changes to his lineup, bringing Gianluigi Donnarumma back in goal and starting Haaland up front.

The match started intensely, with City controlling possession and nearly scoring early on when Bernardo Silva's pass was thwarted by Alisson. The Anfield crowd targeted Marc Guehi, who had previously failed a transfer to Liverpool but remained calm under pressure.

Liverpool struggled to create clear chances in the first half, unable to register a shot on target. Their best opportunity was a penalty shout when Salah fell in the box, but the referee dismissed the claim. The first half ended in a stalemate.

After halftime, Liverpool surged, firing four shots in the opening eleven minutes. However, it was not until the 74th minute that they found the net. Szoboszlai scored a brilliant free kick, putting Liverpool ahead and igniting the crowd's excitement.

City responded quickly, with Haaland assisting Bernardo Silva for the equalizer just ten minutes later, shocking the home fans.

With the match entering stoppage time, Matheus Nunes was fouled by Alisson in the penalty area. The referee awarded a penalty, and Haaland stepped up, scoring decisively to give City the lead and marking his 21st league goal of the season.

In the final moments, a dramatic sequence ensued as Rayan Cherki appeared to score, only for VAR to disallow it. Szoboszlai received a red card for pulling Haaland's shirt during a counterattack, capping off a chaotic end to the match.

This victory keeps Manchester City six points behind Arsenal, fueling their title aspirations. Conversely, Liverpool's defeat leaves them in sixth place, significantly undermining their Champions League aspirations.

Controversies surrounded the match, including Guehi's treatment by fans and Salah's penalty appeal, which will likely be debated. Ultimately, City's sharpness and Haaland's composure proved decisive.

As the dust settles, City continues their pursuit of the title, while Liverpool seeks to regroup as the season progresses. The Premier League title race remains wide open, and the excitement is far from over.