Manchester City's domestic unbeaten run was brought to the end by Liverpool, but Jurgen Klopp's side did it the hard way. Having taken a 4-1 lead, they just about held on to inflict a first league defeat for City in one of the games of the season.
Liverpool came out determined to avenge the 5-0 defeat at the Etihad and end City's unbeaten Premier League run in the process, and a stunning atmosphere inside the stadium spurred the hosts on. The Anfield faithful roared as their side took an early lead through Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
The former Arsenal midfielder was allowed to drive forward before unleasing a powerful strike into the low corner from 20 yards. Ederson got down but could not keep it out and the Reds saw their early pressure rewarded.
A dismal run at Anfield for the Citizens, who have failed to come away with a win since 2003, looked set to continue with Liverpool smothering Guardiola's side with a high line of pressure and they even threatened to double their lead as City piled bodies forward and allowed spaces for Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah to drift into on the counter.
However, Liverpool eventually gave into complacency and the visitors settled on the ball. The hosts took a step back and attempted to protect their lead, but City know how to break down a defensive side as well as anyone and Leroy Sane beat Karius at the near post with a powerful strike.
City were typically dominant as the second half got underway and Nicolas Otamendi even headed a corner onto the crossbar as the visitors looked to keep their domestic record intact. But the chances of that happening took a serious blow in the space of ten minutes.
- Goals Galore -
First, Roberto Firmino shrugged Stones off the ball and delicately lifted it over Ederson to put the Reds in front and just two minutes later Sadio Mane sent a thumping strike into the top corner. The home supporters were euphoric and the Citizens' shock was furthered when Mohamed Salah beat Ederson from 40 yards after the goalkeeper raced off his line to clear.
Liverpool continued to press high up on the pitch and City were initially unable to respond, overwhelmed by the onslaught from the hosts. But it was far from over and Liverpool were not allowed to switch off. With six minutes to go, Bernardo Silva stroked past Karius from close range and, with the Reds looking to wind down time when possible, Gundogan poked into the net in the first minute of stoppage time.
Jurgen Klopp was left fuming on the touchline as his side desperately held on for the final whistle and the German walked off with pure delight on his face, while 'You'll Never Walk Alone' bellowed out at Anfield. A result that will boost Liverpool's confidence and is merely a scratch for Manchester City who remain 15 points clear at the top of the Premier League table.