Liverpool vs Man Utd player ratings: Who shone and who flopped in valiant 2-2 draw
NewsSunday, 05 January 2025 at 20:19
Manchester United defied expectations to deliver a spirited performance, earning a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Liverpool at Anfield.
Despite widespread pre-match pessimism, United came out strong, matching Liverpool stride for stride and silencing the typically raucous Anfield crowd.
The Red Devils created the best chance of the first half when Amad and Rasmus Højlund combined dangerously, though neither could convert.
At the other end, André Onana was called into action to deny Alexis Mac Allister, ensuring the teams went into halftime on level terms.
The second half saw United dream big as Lisandro Martínez, an unlikely scorer, gave them a surprising lead with a well-taken effort.
However, Liverpool responded swiftly through Cody Gakpo, who brought the hosts back on terms. Matters worsened for United when Matthijs de Ligt endured a disastrous 15-minute spell that allowed Liverpool to take the lead.
Just when it seemed United might settle for a moral victory based on their competitive performance, Alejandro Garnacho stepped up to deliver a decisive moment.
His pinpoint cross found Amad Diallo, who made no mistake in finishing to level the game once more.
Both sides pressed relentlessly in a thrilling finale, with neither willing to back down. The match concluded 2-2, a result that reflected the ferocity and quality displayed by both teams.
For United, it was far from a mere "smash-and-grab"; their resilience and determination ensured they left Anfield with heads held high.
Player ratings
André Onana – 7
Made a vital first-half save from Mac Allister, keeping United level with a strong presence in goal. Had little chance with either Liverpool strike.
Matthijs de Ligt – 5.5
Assertive and commanding in the first half, but his performance dipped after the break. Gakpo turned him too easily for Liverpool’s equalizer, and a handball gifted the hosts their second goal.
Harry Maguire – 7.5
Solid and reliable in defense, sticking to his task with excellent front-foot challenges. Less adventurous in possession but ensured Liverpool were kept at bay when under pressure.
Lisandro Martínez – 7
Occasionally caught out when pushing forward, leaving space for Liverpool to exploit in transition. However, he improved as the game progressed and scored United’s opener with great composure.
Noussair Mazraoui – 8
Confident and composed in possession, he played a key role in bypassing Liverpool's press. His calmness under pressure provided United with an outlet in tight situations.
Diogo Dalot – 7
Faced the unenviable task of marking Salah and was booked early after being beaten. Battled hard and managed to hold his own as best he could while he made some good attacks the wing.
Manuel Ugarte – 7.5
The heartbeat of United’s midfield, he broke up play effectively and showcased his underrated dribbling ability. His presence was a significant boost after missing the previous game.
Kobbie Mainoo – 7.5
Made a few errors in possession but was always positive and proactive in his play. Grew into the game and met the occasion with a mature performance.
Amad – 7.5
Missed a golden chance in the first half but redeemed himself with a well-taken equalizer late on. His movement and energy caused Liverpool problems throughout.
Bruno Fernandes – 7
Worked tirelessly to close down spaces and keep United organized defensively. Delivered a perfectly timed assist for Martínez’s goal with a clever slide-rule pass.
Rasmus Højlund – 5
Struggled to make an impact, often engaged in physical battles with Liverpool’s defense. Missed a key opportunity in the first half and lacked sharpness in front of goal.
Substitutes
Alejandro Garnacho – 7
Had a shaky start after coming on but redeemed himself with a pinpoint cross for Amad’s equalizer, demonstrating his decisive impact.
Joshua Zirkzee – 5
Came on late and had minimal time to influence proceedings but had the chance to win the game late on but instead squared for Harry Maguire.
Leny Yoro – 7
Produced a game-saving tackle on Núñez in stoppage time, denying Liverpool a clear scoring opportunity. Showed immense potential with his composure under pressure.
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