CNN
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Much of the talk ahead of Liverpool’s English Premier League clash with Manchester City centered on City’s goalie Erling Haaland, and rightly so given the striker’s record-breaking form.
But at Anfield on Sunday it was Mo Salah who has been overshadowed so far this season by league newcomer Haaland, who made the headlines with a sensational winner to give his side a much-needed victory and a first against City since 2019.
Liverpool have had a stellar start to the league – winning just twice before this game in their worst start under Jurgen Klopp’s tenure – but defeating holders City will boost morale.
Still 14 points adrift of leaders Arsenal, who are four points clear of City in second place, a title challenge for Klopp’s men looks unlikely, but should this win prove to be a turning point there is still time for the team to prevail over their rivals.
The downside for Liverpool was that Klopp was sent off towards the end of the game when the German complained about incumbent Salah believing he had been fouled. But when tempers cool, the Liverpool manager will be over the moon with the result.
For the goal, Kevin de Bruyne’s free-kick went straight to Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, who quickly found Salah through the middle. The forward dodged Joao Cancelo, who slipped, and then beat City keeper Ederson in a one-on-one.
He had previously failed to beat Ederson in a one-on-one with the keeper but it was a clinical finish and one that could prove to be a pivotal moment as Liverpool look back on this season.
“It’s brilliant from Mo Salah. Brilliant finish, brilliant game from Salah,” commented Chris Sutton live on BBC Radio 5.
Moments earlier, it looked like Salah would be substituted but after Klopp spoke briefly to his forward, the manager changed his mind and Harvey Elliott made way instead.
The game had remained goalless until Salah’s breakthrough, but the score belied the quality of the game.
Haaland, as one would expect from a player who has already scored 15 goals this season, had chances and forced Alisson to make two saves, but it was a rare game in which the Norwegian failed to make a significant impact.
Phil Foden thought he had put City 1-0 up but his goal was ruled out by the video assistant referee as Haaland was believed to have fouled Fabinho in the build-up.
City had plenty of possession but with Alisson and defender Virgil van Dijk in the lead, Liverpool found their totem pair were in impenetrable form.
The home side could have scored more goals in the later stages but Darwin Nunez had a shot on goal when Salah was in a better position.