Harry Maguire’s dramatic late header earned Manchester United a 2-1 victory over Liverpool — their first win at Anfield in nearly ten years — and handed the hosts a fourth consecutive defeat.
Liverpool looked set to halt their losing run when Cody Gakpo finally found the net with 12 minutes remaining, having earlier struck the woodwork three times.
But United’s captain for the day rose highest six minutes from time to nod past Giorgi Mamardashvili, securing a memorable win for Ruben Amorim’s side.
United made a stunning start, taking the lead inside two minutes in controversial fashion.
Referee Michael Oliver allowed play to continue despite Alexis Mac Allister being down with a head injury after colliding with Virgil van Dijk, and Bryan Mbeumo took full advantage, slotting past the Liverpool keeper.
The match was frenetic throughout.
Bruno Fernandes missed a clear chance to double United’s lead, while Gakpo’s luckless afternoon saw him denied by the post twice before half-time and again in front of the Kop after the break.
Substitute keeper Senne Lammens also impressed, denying Alexander Isak one-on-one to preserve United’s lead.
Gakpo finally equalised late on, but it was Maguire who had the final say — powering home a header from Fernandes’ perfectly delivered cross to secure United’s first win at Anfield since 2016.
The defeat marks Liverpool’s worst run of form since 2014, deepening pressure on Arne Slot after a £450 million summer overhaul that has yet to deliver results.
Despite dominating possession, Liverpool’s defensive fragility and lack of cutting edge again proved costly, with the home crowd turning restless as another late chance went begging.
For United, Maguire’s performance epitomised his resurgence.
Once out of favour and nearly sold to West Ham, the defender has silenced his critics with grit and consistency.
Amorim’s faith in selecting him ahead of Leny Yoro was vindicated as Maguire not only marshalled the back line but delivered the decisive moment in attack — a fitting reward for his resilience and leadership.
