Liverpool delivered a stunning performance in Matchweek 26 of the 2023 Premier League season as they thrashed Manchester United 7-0 at Anfield. The Reds were in devastating form, with goals from seven different players as they completely outplayed their arch-rivals from start to finish.
The match began with Liverpool showing their intent from the first whistle. They pressed high up the pitch and forced United into a number of errors, with their midfield trio of Fabinho, Thiago and Curtis Jones controlling the game with ease. It was no surprise when Liverpool took the lead after just 10 minutes, as Sadio Mane's cross was met by the head of Roberto Firmino who guided the ball into the bottom corner.
United tried to respond, but they were unable to break down Liverpool's resolute defence. Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez were solid at the back, while Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson were a constant threat going forward. It wasn't long before Liverpool doubled their lead, with Thiago scoring his first goal for the club with a stunning long-range strike that flew into the top corner.
United were shell-shocked, and Liverpool continued to dominate proceedings. They added a third goal just before half-time, with Curtis Jones getting on the scoresheet after a fine move involving Firmino and Mane. It was a deserved lead for Liverpool, who had been by far the better team in the opening 45 minutes.
The second half began much like the first, with Liverpool on the front foot and United struggling to cope with their relentless attacking play. It wasn't long before they added a fourth goal, with Jordan Henderson's header from a corner leaving United goalkeeper David de Gea with no chance.
At this point, it was clear that Liverpool were not going to let up. They continued to create chances and it wasn't long before they added a fifth goal, with Salah getting on the scoresheet after a fine pass from Firmino. The Egyptian forward had been a constant threat throughout the match, and he finally got the goal his performance deserved.
Liverpool weren't done there, though. They added a sixth goal shortly afterwards, with James Milner scoring from the penalty spot after United defender Harry Maguire brought down Mane in the box. It was a clear penalty, and Milner made no mistake from 12 yards.
The final goal of the match came in the 85th minute, with Naby Keita capping off a fine performance with a well-taken strike from the edge of the box. It was a fitting end to a superb performance from Liverpool, who thoroughly deserved their victory.
For Manchester United, it was a day to forget. They were completely outplayed by Liverpool and never looked like getting back into the game after going behind early on. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will have a lot of work to do to pick his players up after such a heavy defeat.
As for Liverpool, this was a statement performance. They showed that they are still one of the best teams in the league, and they will be hoping to build on this result as they push for the title in the remaining matches of the season. With performances like this, it's hard to see anyone stopping them.
