Manchester United end nine-year drought at Anfield with 2-1 win over Liverpool

Manchester United finally broke their nine-year winless streak at Anfield with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday. Bryan Mbeumo’s lightning-fast opener and Harry Maguire’s late header sealed a memorable result for Rúben Amorim’s men, marking United’s first league triumph at the famous ground since 2016.

The match exploded into life within seconds of kickoff. Just 62 seconds in, United stunned the home crowd as Bryan Mbeumo latched onto a clever through ball from Amad Diallo and calmly slotted past Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who was starting in place of the injured Alisson Becker. The early goal gave United a crucial psychological edge, forcing Liverpool to chase the game from the outset.

Liverpool gradually grew into the contest, dominating possession and creating several chances, but United’s defence held firm. Cody Gakpo eventually found the breakthrough for the hosts in the 78th minute. Following a chaotic sequence in the box, Gakpo reacted quickest to a loose ball and side-footed it into the net, restoring parity and sending Anfield into a frenzy.

Harry Maguire's late winner gives all three points to Manchester United

However, United had other plans. In the 84th minute, Bruno Fernandes delivered a precise cross that found Harry Maguire, who powered a header into the bottom corner to restore United’s lead. The centre-back’s goal sent the away fans into raptures, sealing a dramatic and long-awaited victory.

For Amorim, it was a landmark win that showcased his side’s growing resilience and tactical maturity. The result lifted United to ninth place in the table with 13 points, just two behind Liverpool, who have now suffered four consecutive defeats across all competitions.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot now faces mounting pressure to reverse his team’s slide. Despite controlling much of the game, the Reds struggled with composure in the final third and were punished for defensive lapses.

For Manchester United, though, this win meant more than three points — it was redemption at Anfield, nine years in the making.

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