Mainoo’s late magic fires Man United past Liverpool to seal Champions League spot
Manchester United secured a return to the UEFA Champions League after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Liverpool at Old Trafford, with Kobbie Mainoo scoring a dramatic late winner.
Manchester United secured a return to the UEFA Champions League after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Liverpool at Old Trafford, with Kobbie Mainoo scoring a dramatic late winner.
Mainoo struck 13 minutes from time to settle an epic Premier League clash, sealing all three points for United after Liverpool had fought back from two goals down.
The hosts made a flying start, racing into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 15 minutes. Matheus Cunha opened the scoring with a deflected strike from the edge of the box that beat goalkeeper Freddie Woodman, before Benjamin Sesko bundled home from close range.
United could have extended their advantage before the break, but Liverpool were handed a route back into the contest through costly errors.
Dominik Szoboszlai capitalised on a misplaced pass from Amad Diallo to pull one back early in the second half, before setting up Cody Gakpo for the equaliser following another mistake, this time from goalkeeper Senne Lammens.
However, in the week he signed a new five-year contract, Mainoo proved decisive, calmly slotting home from outside the box to restore United’s lead and secure victory.
The win guarantees Champions League football for United after a two-year absence and strengthens Michael Carrick’s case to remain in charge next season.
“I love doing what I’m doing, and it’s a great position for me to be in,” Carrick said. “It feels pretty natural, if I’m totally honest.”
Liverpool, who finished 14 places and 42 points ahead of United last season, now trail their rivals by six points and still have work to do in their final three matches to secure a top-five finish.
