Haaland's Stoppage-Time Penalty Caps Dramatic Manchester City Comeback at Anfield

Manchester City staged a dramatic late comeback to defeat Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield on Sunday, February 8, with Erling Haaland converting a stoppage-time penalty to keep their Premier League title hopes alive. The Norwegian striker returned to City's starting lineup and delivered when it mattered most, securing three crucial points that cut Arsenal's lead at the top to six points. The victory came after Dominik Szoboszlai's sensational free-kick had appeared to seal the win for the home side. Liverpool took the lead through Szoboszlai's stunning free-kick, which looked destined to hand the Reds a vital victory in their push for a top-four finish. The Hungarian midfielder's brilliant strike from distance beat City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma and sent the Anfield crowd into raptures. For much of the match, Liverpool's defense held firm against City's attacking threats, frustrating Pep Guardiola's side and appearing on course for a statement win. The match exploded into chaos in the final minutes as Manchester City mounted their comeback. Bernardo Silva forced home an equalizer in the 84th minute, bundling the ball over the line after sustained pressure from the visitors. Just when it seemed City would have to settle for a point, Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson brought down Matheus Nunes inside the penalty area, leaving referee Anthony Taylor with no choice but to point to the spot. Haaland stepped up to take the penalty in stoppage time, showing ice-cold composure to convert past Alisson and complete the stunning turnaround. The goal sparked wild celebrations from the City players and bench, while the Anfield crowd sat in stunned silence. Before the penalty was taken, Donnarumma had made a crucial save from Alexis Mac Allister at the other end, preserving City's lifeline in the match. The ending descended into further drama when Szoboszlai received a red card amid VAR confusion, with Rayan Cherki's goal being ruled out in the chaotic final moments. The controversial finish overshadowed what had been an intense tactical battle between two of the Premier League's top sides. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp was visibly frustrated with the officiating decisions that went against his team in the crucial moments. The three points move Manchester City back into contention in the title race, now sitting six points behind leaders Arsenal with games in hand. Liverpool remain in sixth place, five points behind fourth-placed Manchester United in the battle for Champions League qualification. The result maintains City's momentum as they chase down Arsenal, while Liverpool's top-four aspirations suffered a significant blow in heartbreaking fashion.