“I don’t want to sound as if am supportting Liverpool, they were cheated on my handball incident”- Nathan Ake reveals how the referee and VAR robbed Liverpool penalty decision involving him was waved away

Liverpool’s highly anticipated clash with Manchester City at Anfield lived up to its billing as one of the standout fixtures of the Premier League season. The electric atmosphere was palpable, with both sets of fans eagerly awaiting a showdown between two of England’s most dominant teams in recent years.

From the outset, Liverpool showcased their intent, taking the game to Pep Guardiola’s side with a fast-paced, high-energy approach that immediately put the visitors on the back foot. The Reds wasted no time asserting their dominance, with chances falling to Cody Gakpo and Virgil van Dijk in the opening exchanges.

Gakpo’s movement and positioning caused City’s defense constant problems, while van Dijk’s aerial presence made him a persistent threat during set pieces. Manchester City, meanwhile, found it difficult to escape their half or establish any control over proceedings. Their usually fluid passing and composure under pressure seemed absent, with Liverpool’s relentless pressing leaving them flustered.

The breakthrough eventually came midway through the first half when Liverpool’s persistence paid off. Mohamed Salah delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, and Cody Gakpo timed his run perfectly, slotting the ball into the net and sending Anfield into raptures.

However, the lead-up to the goal was not without drama. A contentious incident involving City defender Nathan Ake sparked speculation that the ball might have struck the Dutchman’s hand. Despite the apparent evidence, there was no intervention from the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), and Liverpool’s players focused on the game, did not appeal for a penalty.

Rather than let the controversy distract them, Liverpool pressed on with unwavering determination. Mere seconds after the incident, the ball found its way to Gakpo, who calmly turned Salah’s cross into the net, putting Liverpool ahead.

The second half saw Manchester City attempt to regain their composure and claw their way back into the game. Guardiola made tactical adjustments, urging his team to play higher up the pitch and take more risks in possession. Despite their efforts, Liverpool’s defense, marshaled by the commanding presence of van Dijk, held firm.

Alisson Becker, Liverpool’s goalkeeper, was rarely called into action, underscoring the home side’s control of the match. As the clock ticked down, Liverpool delivered the decisive blow in the closing stages to secure all three points.

A lapse in City’s defensive organization allowed Luis Diaz to break through on goal. Goalkeeper Stefan Ortega brought him down inside the penalty area, leaving referee Chris Kavanagh with no choice but to point to the spot. Salah stepped up to take the penalty and converted with trademark precision, sending the ball into the back of the net and the Anfield faithful into delirium.

The 2-0 victory was a statement performance from Jurgen Klopp’s men. From their explosive start to their clinical finishing, Liverpool demonstrated why they remain a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League. For Manchester City, the match served as a rare reminder of their vulnerability when faced with relentless opposition pressure.

Liverpool’s energy, tactical discipline, and attacking flair ultimately proved too much for the reigning champions, who left Anfield empty-handed. This result not only bolstered Liverpool’s title ambitions but also reignited the passionate rivalry between these two teams. With performances like this, the Reds have firmly established themselves as genuine contenders in the race for Premier League glory this season.

The win also highlighted the strength and depth of Liverpool’s squad, as well as their ability to adapt and overcome adversity. The Reds’ victory was built on a solid defensive foundation, with van Dijk and his fellow defenders putting in a resolute shift to nullify City’s attacking threats.

In attack, Liverpool’s pace and movement caused City’s defense all sorts of problems, with Gakpo and Salah proving to be a handful for the visitors’ backline. The Reds’ midfield, meanwhile, was a hive of activity, with the likes of Jordan Henderson and Thiago Alcantara controlling the tempo of the game and dictating the flow of play.

As the season wears on, Liverpool’s performance against Manchester City will be remembered as a defining moment in their title challenge. The Reds’ victory was a testament to their strength, resilience, and determination, and it sent a clear message to their rivals: they are a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League.

With the win, Liverpool moved eight points clear of Manchester City, and their title ambitions received a significant boost. The Reds’ performance was a statement of intent, and it will undoubtedly give them confidence as they look to maintain their momentum in the coming weeks.

In contrast, Manchester City’s defeat was a setback for their title hopes, and it highlighted the challenges they face in their bid to retain their Premier League crown. The Citizens’ performance was lackluster, and they struggled to cope with Liverpool’s intensity and energy.

As the Premier League season continues to unfold, one thing is certain: Liverpool’s victory over Manchester City will be remembered as a pivotal moment in the title race. The Reds’ performance