Liverpool suffered only their second defeat of the Premier League season as Fulham struck decisively with three goals in a whirlwind 14-minute period in the first half, securing a 3-2 victory on Sunday.
Despite this setback, Liverpool remained comfortably at the top of the league, holding an 11-point lead over their closest competitors with just seven games remaining.
Fulham’s victory gave them a vital boost in their European ambitions, as they continued to capitalize on a rare off day for Liverpool.
The Reds’ defeat ended an impressive 27-match unbeaten run in the league, but their position at the summit of the table remains secure.
Meanwhile, in the highly anticipated Manchester derby, Manchester United played out a 0-0 draw with Manchester City, leaving both clubs with plenty to ponder. The result saw United unable to secure their first league double over City since the 2019/20 season, and City’s hopes of qualifying for the Champions League remain uncertain.
United had the better of a largely uneventful match, creating more opportunities but failing to capitalize on them. Despite their dominance in possession, City lacked the intensity and quality that made them Premier League champions for the past four seasons.
Pep Guardiola’s side, now sitting in fifth place, is just two points above sixth-placed Newcastle, who have two games in hand.
Manchester United, currently in 13th place, seem unlikely to qualify for the Champions League via their league position, with their best hope now lying in a Europa League victory. This would be a severe blow after their challenging Premier League season, with inconsistency and a lack of goals marking their campaign.
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A lackluster first half saw few chances for either team, with City’s Kevin De Bruyne, starting in what he announced would be his final season at the club, struggling to make an impact. The Belgian midfielder’s performance highlighted the stark contrast to his earlier seasons, with many now questioning whether he will remain the Premier League legend Guardiola had once predicted.
City had most of the possession but were not able to break through United’s defense. On the counter-attack, United created half-chances but could not convert, with Alejandro Garnacho, Patrick Dorgu, and Manuel Ugarte all unable to test City goalkeeper Ederson.
Phil Foden had the best chance of the match in the second half, but he failed to beat United’s Andre Onana after a defensive lapse. United’s substitutes, Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount, injected more energy into the attack but were denied by Ederson and some resolute defending by City.
Despite some flashes of creativity from both sides, the match ended in frustration for both teams, with neither able to claim the vital three points. With City’s form in freefall and United facing their worst-ever Premier League finish, both teams face an uphill battle to secure Champions League qualification.
The match’s dour atmosphere and lack of intensity are further reflections of the disappointing seasons both Manchester clubs are enduring. The once-dominant forces of English football now face uncertain futures as they struggle to get their campaigns back on track.