Although this contest for Manchester City was against the reigning champions at a ground where they have had little joy, it was a game they could ill-afford to drop points in their hunt to chase down leaders Arsenal. City were on top for large periods of the first half but unable to capitalise on their early dominance, with Haaland having an early effort smothered by Alisson in front of the Kop. It looked to be a crucial moment when Liverpool took the lead, but the Norwegian played a major part in turning the game around in the breathless finale.
Although this contest for Manchester City was against the reigning champions at a ground where they have had little joy, it was a game they could ill-afford to drop points in their hunt to chase down leaders Arsenal.
And until the 84th minute it looked like they were heading back across the M62 with nothing.
But up stepped captain Bernardo Silva and star striker Erling Haaland to inspire an incredible rescue act at Anfield and stay within touching distance of Mikel Arteta's men, who they host in April.
City were on top for large periods of the first half but unable to capitalise on their early dominance, with Haaland having an early effort smothered by Alisson in front of the Kop.
It looked to be a crucial moment when Liverpool took the lead, but the Norwegian played a major part in turning the game around in the breathless finale.
Haaland knocked down Rayan Cherki's cross for Silva to poke home the equaliser from close range - the midfielder's first goal since May, but fourth against the Reds.
Despite missing a penalty against Liverpool in the 3-0 win at Etihad Stadium back in November, Haaland remained calm to roll in the injury-time spot-kick this time for his first goal for City at Anfield and second in eight league games.
City defender Marc Guehi made some timely challenges at the back, but was fortunate to stay on the pitch when receiving only a yellow card for a tug on Mohamed Salah on the edge of the box.
But the former Crystal Palace captain will have enjoyed the victory, having been jeered throughout by home supporters after his move to Liverpool collapsed last summer and he joined Guardiola's men in January.
Tempers boiled over after Cherki's disallowed goal - and Dominik Szoboszlai's red card - deep into injury time, with the two benches exchanging words and a spectator being led away after running on to the pitch.
But City - with centre-back Ruben Dias returning to action - held on for the final few seconds to record a success they desperately needed, not only to end their Anfield hoodoo, but warn Arsenal they are not champions yet.
Category: General Sports
