Liverpool 2-0 Man City: Player ratings as Reds make huge Premier League title statement

Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table to nine points with an impressive 2-0 win over Manchester City on Sunday.

A dominant first-half performance saw Liverpool strike the post through Virgil van Dijk, before Cody Gakpo opened the scoring from close range with one of the Reds' ten shots on goal in the first 45. By contrast, City managed one scuffed strike - avoiding the humiliation of enduring their first shot-less first half in 14 years.

City were stronger after the break but could have easily fallen further behind when a mistake sent Mohamed Salah through on goal. Somehow, the in-form Egyptian sent his one-on-one effort blazing wide.

The introduction of Jeremy Doku off the bench helped City settle into the game but it was all too late for Pep Guardiola's side, who once again became their own worst enemies after a defensive mix-up saw Stefan Ortega foul Luis Diaz in the box. Salah stepped up for the penalty and made no mistake from 12 yards.

It's now Arsenal and Chelsea who sit closest to Liverpool, with City 11 points behind the league leaders in fifth.

FCIQ

Arne Slot could not have played this better. Starting Cody Gakpo on the wing and allowing the Dutchman's movement to bring about the first goal was a masterstroke, but the boss' best call came later on.

When City began controlling proceedings, Slot recognised the need for some fresh legs off the bench. Gakpo was withdrawn for Darwin Nunez, whose relentless press led to the turnover that preceded the penalty.

Liverpool player ratings (4-2-3-1)

*Ratings provided by FotMob*

Subs not used: Harvey Davies (GK), Vitezslav Jaros (GK), Trey Nyoni, Tyler Morton, Wataru Endo

Man City player ratings (4-2-3-1)

*Ratings provided by FotMob*

Subs not used: Ederson (GK), Scott Carson (GK), Josko Gvardiol, James McAtee, Nico O'Reilly

Player of the match - Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

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