Manchester United came from behind to edge Liverpool 3-2 in a thrilling Premier League encounter at Old Trafford, with Kobbie Mainoo's 77th-minute strike proving decisive in a five-goal classic.
Manchester United and Liverpool served up an entertaining spectacle on May 3rd, with both teams chasing crucial points in the title race. United sat third with 61 points from 34 matches, while Liverpool occupied fourth place with 58 points. The visitors arrived in strong form, winning their last three matches, but United's recent record of two wins and a draw suggested confidence at home.
The home side exploded out of the blocks with devastating effect. Matheus Cunha fired United ahead in just the sixth minute, catching Liverpool's defense off guard with a clinical finish. Cunha's early goal set the tone for a dominant opening spell.
Liverpool struggled to settle, and United capitalized ruthlessly. Benjamin Šeško doubled the advantage in the 14th minute, firing a composed finish past the Liverpool goalkeeper. Two goals in eight minutes left the visitors shell-shocked and searching for answers.
The first half saw United control proceedings with 38% possession but clinical finishing. Liverpool managed only three shots on target compared to United's six. The home crowd sensed a potential rout as the half progressed without further goals.
However, Liverpool emerged with renewed purpose after the interval. Dominik Szoboszlai pulled one back in the 47th minute, giving the visitors hope and sparking a comeback attempt. The midfielder's goal signaled a shift in momentum.
Cody Gakpo equalized just nine minutes later in the 56th minute, drawing Liverpool level at 2-2. Suddenly, the match hung in balance as both teams pressed for a winner. Luke Shaw received a yellow card in the 49th minute as United's defense came under increasing pressure.
The decisive moment arrived in the 77th minute when Kobbie Mainoo restored United's lead with a crucial goal. Mainoo's finish proved to be the match-winner, settling a thrilling contest. Mainoo's performance earned him an 8.0 rating, while Szoboszlai led all players with 8.3.
United dominated the statistical battle despite Liverpool's superior possession. The hosts registered 17 total shots with six on target, while Liverpool managed 13 shots with five on target. United's expected goals stood at 2.08 compared to Liverpool's 0.89, reflecting their clinical finishing.
Bruno Fernandes orchestrated United's midfield with six key passes and earned a yellow card late on. Casemiro provided steel in defense with four tackles. Liverpool's Szoboszlai created one assist alongside his goal, nearly dragging his team back from the brink.
The result lifts United to 64 points with one game remaining, strengthening their grip on third place. Liverpool stays on 58 points, facing a tough final fixture. This victory showcases United's ability to weather storms and finish games when it matters most.
