United Beyond Manchester

Despite a near postponement of the match due to weather, Manchester United and Liverpool faced off for the 216th time on Sunday.

Last season, an FA Cup Quarterfinal classic between the two rivals ended with an incredible stoppage-time winner from Amad Diallo. In a crucial match for United to start 2025, the Ivorian struck late again, this time earning his side a Premier League point at Anfield.

Match Flow

Liverpool had a few early chances, but the first half was largely even. Andre Onana had to make a save from an effort by Alexis McAllister, but United followed with several opportunities. The best chance of the half fell to Rasmus Hojlund, who ought to have done better, as he shot straight at Alisson.

At the half, Manchester United had forced the same amount of saves as Liverpool and kept possession near even, leading to a 0-0 score.

Manchester United struck first at the start of the second half through Lisandro Martinez. The Argentine center-back smashed in his second-ever goal for the club with a beautiful left-footed finish after an assist from Bruno Fernandes.

The home side leveled just six minutes later through Cody Gakpo. The Dutch forward cut back on Matthijs De Ligt and scored into the far corner past a helpless Andre Onana.

The comeback was completed by Liverpool in the 69th minute through a Mohamed Salah penalty. Matthijs De Ligt was caught with his arm raised on a header on goal, and a penalty was given after a VAR check.

However, Manchester United were not done fighting. In the 80th minute, Alejandro Garnacho cut a cross back to Amad Diallo, who hit the ball low into the net past Alisson to level the match at two.

A glorious opportunity for Harry Maguire flew over the bar on the last kick of the game. Joshua Zirkzee placed a perfect ball to the feet of the center-back, who managed to get under it and send it over the bar, wasting a massive opportunity to steal three points at Anfield.

Three Analysis Points

Manchester United proved today that they can go toe-toe with anyone. Many pundits believed that Liverpool would walk over United to a big win, but the Reds brought the fight to Anfield and earned an away point against the league leaders. The problem for Ruben Amorim’s side has been bringing consistent play and fight to every match. The draw with Liverpool and win against Manchester City bookend a terrible three losses against Bournemouth, Wolves, and Newcastle United. If United find more consistency, success can follow in 2025.

Manchester United’s striker issues are holding the team back. Rasmus Hojlund had a perfect opportunity to put United ahead before halftime but squandered it as he shot right at Allison. Rumors are swirling that Zirkzee could leave, and a striker could be brought in this January. United fans will be anxiously waiting to see if the club can make a move to set up the second half of the season.

Amad Diallo is a few steps away from becoming a world-class player. Before the season, Kobbie Mainoo backed the Ivorian to “break the internet.” Ever since the arrival of Ruben Amorim, Amad has been nothing short of fantastic, scoring three times and assisting another five goals. His direct attacking style throws the opposition off, and his quick feet allow him to beat defenders with ease. A big second half of the season could be in store for Amad Diallo as he continues to be Amorim’s most influential player.

Next Match

Manchester United go to the Emirates next Sunday to face Arsenal in the Third Round of the FA Cup.