Liverpool Unraveled by Manchester City's Attacking Runs

Arne Slot's side were set up to contain City's threats, but couldn't maintain their defensive discipline for the full 90 minutes

Apr. 5, 2026 at 6:21am

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Liverpool were able to frustrate Manchester City for much of the first half, using a compact defensive shape to limit the space for City's wingers and full-backs. However, two quick goals from Erling Haaland just before halftime and two more early in the second half saw City run away with a 4-0 victory in the FA Cup. Liverpool's defensive structure fell apart as they failed to track City's attacking runs, particularly down the left side where Jeremy Doku and Nico O'Reilly caused problems.

Why it matters

This result highlights Liverpool's defensive vulnerabilities when they are unable to maintain their shape and discipline for the full match. With upcoming Champions League matches against Paris Saint-Germain, who are also adept at attacking rotations and off-ball runs, Liverpool will need to learn from this experience if they are to have any chance of progressing in Europe.

The details

Liverpool manager Arne Slot had clearly identified Manchester City's left-sided attacks as a key threat, deploying Joe Gomez at right-back to closely mark Jeremy Doku. Midfielders Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai also provided defensive cover, forming a compact back five at times to limit the space for City's wingers and full-backs. This approach was effective for much of the first half, with City focusing 42% of their attacks down the left. However, Liverpool's defensive structure fell apart in the final stages, as they failed to track underlapping runs and were punished for the spaces that opened up.

  • In the 38th minute, Erling Haaland scored the opening goal for Manchester City.
  • In the 45th minute, Haaland doubled City's lead with a second quick goal.
  • In the 53rd minute, Manchester City scored their third goal to make it 3-0.
  • In the 54th minute, Manchester City added a fourth goal to seal the 4-0 victory.

The players

Erling Haaland

The Manchester City striker scored two quick goals just before halftime to put his team in control of the match.

Jeremy Doku

The Liverpool winger was a key focus of Manchester City's attacks down the left side, with Liverpool deploying extra defensive cover to try and limit his impact.

Nico O'Reilly

The Manchester City left-back made runs into the half-spaces that caused problems for Liverpool's defense, contributing to the goals scored in the second half.

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What they’re saying

“If you tell me that from 15 runs Manchester City makes, my players don't run all 15 times — I disagree with you. But if you look at the goals, I (do) see runs not being followed, crosses not being blocked, duels in front of goal not being won.”

— Arne Slot, Liverpool Manager

What’s next

Liverpool will need to quickly regroup and refocus ahead of their upcoming Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday. Maintaining defensive discipline and tracking attacking runs for the full 90 minutes will be crucial if they are to have any chance of getting a result against the European champions.

The takeaway

This match highlighted Liverpool's vulnerability when they are unable to sustain their defensive shape and concentration for the full duration of a game. With upcoming high-profile matches against teams adept at attacking rotations, Liverpool must learn from this experience and find a way to shore up their defense if they are to have success on multiple fronts this season.