On Sunday 19 October 2025, Manchester United ended a nine-year Anfield jinx by earning a dramatic 2-1 Premier League victory over Liverpool, thanks to a decisive 84th-minute header from Harry Maguire.
From the very start, United signalled intent. Within the opening minute, Bryan Mbeumo capitalised on a flick-on from Amad Diallo to sprint in behind and slot the ball past Liverpool’s keeper. The speed of the goal stunned the home crowd and set United on their way.
Liverpool responded more purposefully during the remainder of the first half and increasingly after the break. The hosts struck the post three times via Cody Gakpo before finally finding the net in the 78th minute when Gakpo tapped in from a cross by Federico Chiesa. At that point, it looked like Liverpool might claim the momentum.
However, with the game finely balanced, United seized their moment. From a corner, captain Bruno Fernandes delivered a well-weighted cross and Maguire rose above the defence to nod home the winner in the 84th minute.
For United, the significance of the result can’t be overstated. The club had not won at Anfield since January 2016 and the victory lifts both morale and league position. It also marks the first time under manager Ruben Amorim that the team have recorded back-to-back league wins.
Conversely for Liverpool, this defeat is symptomatic of wider problems. It was their fourth consecutive loss in all competitions–their worst such run since 2014. Despite dominating possession and generating numerous chances, their defensive frailties and inability to convert opportunities continue to hinder them.
Key take-aways from the match:
- United demonstrated resilience and clinical finishing, seizing the goal when it mattered most.
- Liverpool’s attack was lively but wasteful; hitting the woodwork multiple times and missing big chances will leave serious questions for their coaching staff.
- The psychological barrier at Anfield has been broken for United – this result may mark the start of a positive turnaround.
- For Liverpool, the path ahead now demands immediate improvement if they are to salvage their title ambitions.
In interview after the game, Maguire said the victory “means everything” to him and his club, pointing out how difficult it had been to claim three points on this ground. Meanwhile Van Dijk admitted the second goal was “very sloppy” and stressed the need for collective togetherness moving forward.
