First-Half Storyline: Manchester City vs Liverpool
The first half at the Etihad exploded into life with both teams showing exactly why this rivalry defines the Premier League era.
Manchester City started the brighter side, pressing aggressively and controlling possession. Phil Foden drifted between the lines, Kevin De Bruyne dictated the tempo, and Erling Haaland constantly threatened the Liverpool back line. City carved out early chances, with Doku tormenting Robertson and Haaland forcing a strong save from Alisson.
Liverpool, however, refused to buckle. Mohamed Salah dropped deeper to influence play, and every time Liverpool broke forward, they looked dangerous. One swift counter through Szoboszlai and Núñez almost stunned the Etihad, but the shot flashed wide.
The tension rose when Virgil van Dijk thought he had given Liverpool the lead, only for VAR to rule the goal out after Andy Robertson was judged to be interfering from an offside position—even though he ducked out of the way. The decision frustrated Liverpool and fired up City.
Moments later, Manchester City capitalised. A clever move from midfield released Haaland, who found the bottom corner with a trademark finish to put City 1–0 up and send the home fans into a frenzy.
Liverpool nearly responded immediately, with Salah slipping Luis Díaz through on goal, but Ederson reacted sharply.
The first half ended with City dominant in possession and Liverpool dangerous on the break—both sides trading blows in a tense, high-quality battle.
