Anfield — Sunday, 19 October 2025. Manchester United ended a long wait for a league win at Anfield, beating Liverpool 2–1 thanks to Harry Maguire’s late header after Cody Gakpo had cancelled out Bryan Mbeumo’s opener.
The game in brief
Rúben Amorim’s plan landed inside two minutes: Amad slipped Mbeumo through and the forward drilled United ahead. Liverpool rallied—Gakpo hit the woodwork twice either side of half-time before finally turning in from close range. Just as the momentum swung, Bruno Fernandes’ deep cross found Maguire, who rose at the back post to win it and ignite the away end.
What you missed (but mattered)
- Badge-thump message: Beyond the winner, Maguire’s repeated badge-thump in front of the away end felt like a line in the sand on commitment. On current form, United should be moving to tie him down on fresh terms.
- Pre-match curveball: Amorim benched Benjamin Šeško, a call that even left Arne Slot guessing in his pre-match TV hit. The uncertainty over United’s forward setup paid off almost immediately with Mbeumo’s early strike.
- Schmeichel embrace, Lammens composure: As the team coach arrived, Senne Lammens shared a hug with Peter Schmeichel. The Belgian then played with calm authority, producing a big first-half stop amid the Anfield noise.
- Two greats, one snack: In the directors’ box, Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Kenny Dalglish shared a bag of Chocolate Buttons at half-time—rivalry paused, briefly.
The touchline battle
Amorim out-flanked Slot early, then found a second wind with late changes as Liverpool pressed. Slot’s side had territory and chances, but United’s structure held when it mattered.
Player of the Match
Harry Maguire. Dominant in both boxes and decisive with the winner.
What’s next
United’s run-in over the next few weeks will shape Amorim’s top-four push, while Liverpool must respond quickly to keep pace at the top.
