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Premier League games never tend to disappoint, do they? It was a goalless night at the Anfield tonight as both teams failed to make a difference in the whole 90 minutes played, with 3 minutes of extra time as well.
It was the most awaited match of the season for the Citizens, as the horror show last time they faced Liverpool at Anfield in the Champions League was still fresh in their fans' minds. A 3-0 defeat was nothing to be proud of and Manchester City certainly sought revenge.
In the dying minutes of the game, it was Riyad Mahrez who could have made a difference in the scoreline from the spot, following a reckless challenge by Van Dijk on Leroy Sane to gift City a penalty.
However, Mahrez blasted off the shot over the crossbar, resulting in a dreadful penalty. It was a bit of a selfish play from the African winger, as Gabriel Jesus is the man who takes penalties in the absence of Aguero.
It was a great game of football, though the scoreline says otherwise. Both teams had enough number of chances to alter the score but none of them was clinical enough, and as a result, the game ended in a draw.
#3 Liverpool reckless in the final third
The lethal front three of Mane, Firmino and Salah were nowhere to their best yesterday. They were clearly struggling to hold the ball - thanks to the brilliant displays by Laporte and John Stones.
Many expected Salah to perform on a godly level this season, after bagging a staggering 41 goals across all competitions.
However, he has failed to keep up to his fans' expectations as the Egyptian has only scored thrice in 8 matches, with just one assist to his name.
Liverpool are struggling in the final third this season, something no one expected to happen. However, the Reds certainly back them to improve, for the fact that the trio was literally the best across the globe just last season.
#2 Manchester City missed Kevin De Bruyne tremendously
It was obvious that Manchester City would miss Kevin De Bruyne in the middle of the pitch. His game is sublime and the confidence he possesses on the field is incredible.
It was Bernado Silva who started the game on KDB's position, and the Portuguese did not disappoint. He was continuously trying to start off attacks and play through balls, and alongside David Silva, they were a serious threat to the Reds.
Kevin De Bruyne will surely be available for the next game against Liverpool, which will be played at Etihad on the 1st of January 2019.
#1 An impressive defensive display by City
Laporte and Stones were bossing the defence, as the duo did not let a single goal go through. It was an away game and Manchester City conceded zero goals against a mighty side like Liverpool though they did not score any either.
Stones has significantly improved under Guardiola and he was perfectly positioned in every set piece and counterattacks. He, alongside Laporte, kept the Liverpool attack silent throughout the game.
It was a great defensive display by Manchester City and I do not think there is any team as good as City to win the Premier League.
