Manchester City produced a ruthless display at the Etihad, dismantling Liverpool 3–0 in a one-sided Premier League showdown that sent a powerful message across Europe. Pep Guardiola’s men looked unstoppable, and at the heart of their brilliance was Belgian sensation Jeremy Doku, whose electric performance lit up the night.
From the opening whistle, the atmosphere was tense. Liverpool pressed high in an attempt to unsettle City, but Guardiola’s side absorbed the pressure with trademark composure. Rodri dictated the tempo in midfield, while Doku repeatedly tore through Liverpool’s defence with his lightning runs and fearless dribbling.
Liverpool had a few early chances — Mohamed Salah tried to rally his side and Darwin Núñez came close to an opener — but the Reds lacked rhythm and conviction. Then came the turning point: Doku’s dazzling footwork drew a foul from Joe Gomez, handing City a penalty. Erling Haaland’s spot kick was brilliantly saved by Giorgi Mamardashvili, but the Norwegian didn’t stay quiet for long.
Moments later, Haaland punished a defensive lapse, shrugging off Virgil van Dijk and smashing home the opener. The Etihad erupted as City took control. Liverpool thought they had drawn level through a Van Dijk header from a corner, but VAR ruled it out for interference by Andy Robertson — a decision that crushed any momentum they had.
City doubled their advantage soon after when Nico González’s strike took a wicked deflection off Van Dijk and beat the helpless Mamardashvili. The pressure mounted, and Liverpool’s defence began to crumble under relentless attacks.
Then came the moment of magic. A slick counter saw Phil Foden thread a pass to Doku, who danced past Gomez and curled a stunning effort into the far corner. It was a goal worthy of the occasion — a moment of artistry that summed up the gap between both sides.
Liverpool were visibly deflated. Salah’s frustration was clear, Robertson looked exhausted, and Klopp could only watch as City’s fluid attack dictated every phase. Haaland and Doku both came close to adding a fourth, while Guardiola’s touchline intensity kept his side razor-sharp until the final whistle.
The win lifts Manchester City into second place, just behind Arsenal, and reaffirms their reputation as England’s most complete team. Klopp admitted after the match that Liverpool were “simply outplayed,” giving credit to Doku’s game-changing display.
For Doku, this was a breakout performance — proof that he’s not just another talented winger, but a genuine match-winner ready to thrive under Guardiola’s guidance. His pace, creativity, and confidence were a nightmare for Liverpool’s backline all afternoon.
As the fans roared their approval, it was clear: Manchester City aren’t just chasing the title — they’re reminding everyone why they set the standard.
Final Score: Manchester City 3–0 Liverpool
✨ Doku dazzled. Haaland thundered. City dominated.
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