Harry Maguire’s late header sealed a historic 2–1 win for Manchester United at Anfield — their first triumph on Liverpool’s home turf in nearly a decade — and deepened the Reds’ crisis with a fourth consecutive defeat.
United got off to a dream start inside two minutes when Bryan Mbeumo fired home past Liverpool’s stand-in goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who replaced the injured Alisson. The goal came amid controversy as referee Michael Oliver allowed play to continue despite Alexis Mac Allister lying on the pitch after an accidental clash of heads with Virgil van Dijk.
Liverpool battled back, with Cody Gakpo striking the woodwork twice before finally equalising 12 minutes from time, finishing from close range to level the contest. The Dutch forward was the liveliest of Ruben Amorim’s men, but his luck deserted him again as he hit the bar for a third time in front of The Kop.
Just when it looked like Liverpool might snatch a much-needed win, Maguire rose highest to meet Bruno Fernandes’ floated cross and powered a header beyond Mamardashvili in the 84th minute — sparking wild celebrations among the United faithful.
“It means everything,” Maguire said after the match. “They’ve had the better of us for years, and we’ve not given our fans enough days like this. It’s been a long time coming — to finally win here after so many attempts is special. This one’s for the fans.”
The victory marked United’s first win at Anfield since January 2016 and handed Liverpool their worst run of form since November 2014 under Brendan Rodgers.
Earlier, Liverpool appealed for a penalty when Casemiro’s cross struck Amad Diallo’s arm, but VAR ruled that the winger’s hand was in a natural position. United’s new Belgian goalkeeper, Senne Lammens, also impressed with key saves, including one-on-one against Alexander Isak.
In the end, Maguire’s towering finish ended nearly a decade of frustration for the Red Devils at Anfield — and delivered a statement victory that could reignite their season.
