Manchester City suffered a 2-0 defeat to Liverpool at the Etihad, further denting their title hopes. Mohamed Salah starred with a goal and an assist, while Kevin De Bruyne struggled. City's defensive errors proved costly as Guardiola’s side lacked creativity, raising concerns about their Premier League ambitions.
Manchester City suffered a 2-0 defeat to Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium, further denting their Premier League title hopes. Mohamed Salah starred, scoring one and assisting another, as City's defensive frailties were exposed.
The hosts struggled without Erling Haaland, and Kevin De Bruyne endured a forgettable performance, repeatedly losing possession and failing to influence the game. Josko Gvardiol's mistakes proved costly, allowing Salah to set up Dominik Szoboszlai for Liverpool's second goal. Despite a late surge, City lacked creativity, with Phil Foden and Savinho unable to trouble Liverpool's well-organized defense.
City thought they had equalized through Omar Marmoush, but his goal was ruled out for offside. Liverpool also had a third goal disallowed when Curtis Jones was marginally offside. The home crowd, usually boisterous, was subdued as Guardiola's side looked a shadow of their dominant best.
Jeremy Doku was City's lone bright spark, constantly driving at Liverpool's defense, but without an end product. Ederson made a key save from Luis Diaz but was left helpless for both Liverpool goals. The introduction of Ilkay Gundogan and Ruben Dias failed to change the game, as Guardiola’s tactics fell flat.
With this defeat, City’s title challenge appears to be slipping away, while Liverpool continues to assert their dominance. Guardiola now faces tough questions as his side struggles for form in the crucial stage of the season.
