In a match that encapsulated everything thrilling about Premier League football, Erling Haaland delivered a masterclass in clinical finishing as Manchester City came from behind to defeat Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield on February 8, 2026. The Norwegian striker's late double keeps Pep Guardiola's side firmly in the title conversation as they continue their pursuit of league leaders Arsenal.

The first half belonged largely to the visitors, who dominated possession and created numerous opportunities without finding the breakthrough. Liverpool's defense, marshaled effectively by their backline, frustrated City's attacking efforts time and again as the interval arrived with the scoresheet blank.

The complexion of the match changed dramatically in the 74th minute when Dominik Szoboszlai produced a moment of individual brilliance. The Hungarian international stepped up to take a free kick from nearly 30 meters out and delivered a swerving effort that left Ederson rooted to the spot. The ball nestled into the net, and Anfield erupted with belief that all three points would remain on Merseyside.

However, Manchester City's championship pedigree shone through in the closing stages. With ten minutes remaining, Bernardo Silva delivered a precise cross into the six-yard box, where Haaland rose majestically to power a header past Alisson. The equalizer sent shockwaves through the home crowd and signaled that City were not prepared to leave without a fight.

The drama intensified in stoppage time when VAR intervened in a controversial moment. Rayan Cherki appeared to have given Liverpool a late winner, bundling the ball home from close range. However, upon review, the goal was chalked off after Szoboszlai was penalized for pulling Haaland's shirt during the buildup. The decision left Liverpool's players and supporters incredulous.

Just minutes later, heartbreak turned to despair for the home side. Mathieu Nunes drove into the penalty area and was brought down by Alisson, leaving referee no choice but to point to the spot. Haaland, displaying nerves of steel in the hostile atmosphere, stepped up and dispatched the penalty with characteristic precision in the 95th minute to complete the comeback.

The victory carries enormous significance in the context of the Premier League title race. Arsenal currently sit atop the standings with a healthy advantage, but this result reduces their lead over City to just six points. With Aston Villa also lurking in third place, the battle for the championship remains very much alive heading into the crucial spring fixtures.

For Liverpool, the defeat represents a significant setback in their own ambitions. Currently positioned in sixth place, they find themselves outside the Champions League qualification spots and will need a strong run of form to claw their way back into contention.

Pep Guardiola's tactical adjustments in the second half proved decisive, as City's persistence finally broke down Liverpool's resistance. The Catalan manager has repeatedly demonstrated an ability to find solutions when it matters most, and Saturday's comeback was another testament to his team's mental resilience.

As the season enters its decisive phase, Manchester City have served notice that they will not surrender their grip on English football without a fight. With Haaland in this kind of form, anything remains possible.