Amad netted the equaliser as Manchester United went to Anfield and earned a 2-2 draw against Liverpool on Sunday. Carl Recine/Getty Images



In a thrilling encounter at Anfield, Manchester United halted their three-match losing streak with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Liverpool on Sunday, denting the home side's pursuit of the Premier League title.

After falling behind to a Lisandro Martínez goal early in the second half, Liverpool responded with a Cody Gakpo equalizer followed by a Mohamed Salah penalty, turning the game in their favor. However, United refused to back down, with winger Amad securing a crucial point for the visitors in the 80th minute, finishing off a cross from Alejandro Garnacho from close range.

The match, which almost faced a postponement due to heavy snow in the north of England, saw United come close to snatching a last-minute winner when Harry Maguire's shot from close range sailed over the crossbar in the seventh minute of stoppage time. Despite the dramatic finale, Liverpool held on for a draw, which leaves them six points clear at the top of the Premier League, ahead of Arsenal.

Hope for United Under Amorim

While United's failure to secure a win will be disappointing, manager Ruben Amorim can take pride in his team's spirited performance against the league leaders. Despite facing a difficult stretch of form, with five losses in their last six matches, United showed promise in their first meeting with Liverpool under Amorim.

United had an opportunity for a dramatic win when Maguire missed from close range in the dying moments, a chance that would have marked their first victory at Anfield since 2016. Nonetheless, the result is a step in the right direction for the Portuguese coach, offering optimism for the future.

Amorim's arrival at United had been marked by concerns over his players’ fear of taking control of matches, but against Liverpool, the team demonstrated resilience. Despite weaknesses—particularly in attack—Amorim will be encouraged by the solid performances from United's defensive trio and midfielders Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte. The contribution of wing-backs Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui was also crucial, providing vital width and defensive support.

After having led and lost the advantage, the fightback to claim a draw could become a defining moment for United's rebuilding process under Amorim, giving his players a valuable benchmark for future performances.


Late Amad Equalizer Saves United in Dramatic 2-2 Draw at Anfield. Liverpool v Man United, Premier League 2024-25

Liverpool's Control Issues Raise Concerns

Liverpool’s display against United will worry manager Arne Slot, as his team struggled to assert control—a contrast to the disciplined, possession-heavy approach he has tried to instill. Slot’s predecessor, Jürgen Klopp, was known for his high-intensity pressing, but Slot's more patient, controlled style has not yet been fully embraced by his players, as demonstrated by their frequent turnovers and United’s ability to create high-quality chances.

Despite dominating possession, Liverpool never truly pinned United back. The visitors' well-organized defense and counter-attacks kept the Reds from building sustained pressure, allowing United to stay in the game and even threaten a win.

Alexander-Arnold's Defensive Struggles Highlighted

One major concern for Liverpool was Trent Alexander-Arnold’s defensive performance. The 26-year-old was repeatedly exposed by United’s attacks down his flank, with Diogo Dalot enjoying success in one-on-one duels. Both of United’s goals stemmed from attacks targeting Alexander-Arnold’s position, and his struggles were compounded by vocal criticism from Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk.

With Conor Bradley now fit, Alexander-Arnold's place in the starting lineup could come under scrutiny. Slot may consider tactical changes, especially with Bradley now available to offer an alternative.

Gakpo Shines as Liverpool's Big-Match Player

Cody Gakpo has emerged as one of Liverpool’s most important players under Slot, and his goal against United was a testament to his growing influence. The Dutch forward has shown remarkable form this season, scoring against top clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester City. His consistent ability to perform in key moments has solidified his role as a crucial part of Liverpool’s attack, further cementing his importance in the squad.

Højlund and United’s Striker Struggles

Rasmus Højlund’s lack of clinical finishing has been a concern for Manchester United this season. The Danish forward missed a golden opportunity in the first half, shooting straight at Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker when clean through on goal. His lack of composure in front of goal reflects United’s ongoing striker issues, with Højlund, Joshua Zirkzee, and Amad all expected to shoulder the scoring burden.

With just two goals to his name this season, Højlund’s struggle for form highlights the need for a proven goal scorer at Old Trafford. United’s reliance on midfielders like Bruno Fernandes for goals shows the club’s lack of a true striker capable of leading the line and converting chances into goals.

While Højlund is still young, his current lack of confidence and finishing ability raises questions about whether he can develop into the 20-goal-a-season striker that United desperately needs.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

You may also like

Suzuki Sparks Canadiens’ Thrilling Comeback Victory Over Panthers

Nick Suzuki proved once again why he’s the heart of the Montreal Canadiens. With just seconds left on the clock,....

Kuzmenko Leads Kings to 4-1 Win Over Top-Ranked Jets

The Los Angeles Kings delivered a commanding 4-1 victory over the NHL-leading Winnipeg Jets on Tuesday night, with Andrei Kuzmenko,....

Ovechkin Nears Gretzky’s Record as Capitals Edge Bruins 4-3

Alex Ovechkin inched closer to history on Tuesday night, scoring his 891st career goal as the Washington Capitals secured a....

Sharangovich Seals Flames' 3-2 Shootout Victory Over Avalanche

The Calgary Flames pulled off an electrifying comeback Monday night, rallying from a two-goal deficit to stun the Colorado Avalanche....

Devils Edge Wild in Shootout Thriller as NHL Action Heats Up

The New Jersey Devils secured a thrilling 3-2 shootout victory over the Minnesota Wild on Monday night, marking their third....

Women's NCAA Final Four: South Carolina vs. Texas, UCLA vs. UConn

In an exciting twist, the Women's NCAA Final Four is set with three No. 1 seeds vying for a spot....

Raptors' Young Core Gaining Momentum as Season Winds Down

The Toronto Raptors may be out of the playoff race, but their recent performances suggest a promising future. With a....

Jenner Shines as Blue Jackets Edge Canucks in 7-6 Shootout Win

The Columbus Blue Jackets pulled off a stunning comeback on Friday night, rallying from multiple deficits to claim a 7-6....

Kraken Dominate Oilers with Quick Strikes in 6-1 Victory

The Seattle Kraken snapped their three-game losing streak in style, crushing the Edmonton Oilers 6-1 on Thursday night. Jaden Schwartz....

Senators Edge Red Wings 4-3 in Tight Battle

The Ottawa Senators secured a hard-fought 4-3 win against the Detroit Red Wings on Thursday night. Thomas Chabot and Tim....

Sharks Triumph in Shootout Thriller Against Maple Leafs

The San Jose Sharks secured a thrilling 6-5 shootout victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Thursday night, despite nearly....

Canucks Crush Islanders with a 5-2 Victory

The Vancouver Canucks delivered a commanding 5-2 victory over the New York Islanders on Wednesday night, proving their resilience with....