Man City Issues Underlined in Defeat? Liverpool's Anfield Heartbreak Highlights Deeper Concerns

In a dramatic Premier League clash at Anfield on February 8, 2026, Manchester City stunned Liverpool with a 2-1 comeback victory, exposing vulnerabilities in Arne Slot's defending champions.[3][2] Liverpool, sitting at 1-6-8 with 39 points, took the lead in the 74th minute through Dominik Szoboszlai's unstoppable free-kick screamer from 30 yards, his second such stunner this season.[5][2]

City, chasing Arsenal in the title race, dominated possession but struggled to break through Liverpool's resilient defense early on. Alisson Becker made crucial saves, denying Erling Haaland twice in the first half.[3] Mohamed Salah came close, lobbing over after Gianluigi Donnarumma flapped at a cross, but the home side held firm amid boos for City's territorial control.[3][4]

The game turned chaotic late. Bernardo Silva volleyed Haaland's knockdown through Alisson's legs to equalize, shifting momentum.[2][3] In added time, Alisson felled Matheus Nunes in the box, earning a penalty. Haaland converted his first Anfield goal—and second league strike since Christmas—sealing City's first win there with fans since 2003 and completing a home-and-away double over Liverpool for the first time in 89 years.[3][4][7]

Post-goal drama ensued: Rayan Cherki's stoppage-time lob appeared to make it 3-1, but Szoboszlai's chase led to a red card after clashing with Haaland.[2] For Liverpool, this loss amplifies concerns under Slot. Despite their title glow fading, failing to hold a lead echoes familiar struggles. Confidence has evaporated; this marks a run of just one win recently, answering unwanted questions about Slot's tenure amid dropped points.[3][4]

City close the gap to Arsenal to six points, with Haaland's clutch finish vital. Liverpool's highs and lows now matter more than ever, as defensive lapses and set-piece magic from foes underline pressing issues.[1][6]

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