Anfield witnessed a Premier League classic on February 8, 2026, as Manchester City edged out Liverpool 2-1 in a match filled with drama and late VAR controversy. The game, crucial for both sides' title aspirations, delivered a spectacle that will be debated for days to come.

After a goalless first half in which City dominated, Liverpool broke the deadlock in the 74th minute with a stunning free-kick from Dominik Szoboszlai, who rifled the ball into the back of the net from nearly 30 metres. However, City responded swiftly. Just ten minutes later, Erling Haaland headed a cross into the path of Bernardo Silva, who scored from close range.

The real drama unfolded in added time. Alisson Becker was adjudged to have brought down Matheus Nunes in the box, and the referee pointed to the spot. Haaland stepped up and converted the penalty, seemingly securing a late victory for the visitors.

But the drama didn't end there. In the dying moments, with Alisson upfield, Rayan Cherki found the net from the halfway line amidst a tussle between Haaland and Szoboszlai. VAR intervened and disallowed the goal, and Szoboszlai was sent off for pulling Haaland's shirt, awarding City a free kick. Cherki then blasted the free kick into the crowd before the referee blew the final whistle.

The disallowed goal and subsequent sending off sparked fierce debate, with Liverpool fans and pundits questioning the VAR's intervention and the referee's decision to award a foul. Some felt the contact was minimal and not enough to warrant a free kick, while others argued that Szoboszlai had clearly impeded Haaland.

Referee Craig Pawson's performance also came under scrutiny. Pawson has been previously criticised by former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp for supposedly "hiding behind VAR" after a controversial match against West Ham United in 2021. Some observers have noted Pawson's tendency to be lenient, potentially placing more responsibility on VAR to intervene.

Erling Haaland expressed sympathy for Pawson amidst the VAR drama.

The result sees Manchester City close the gap on leaders Arsenal to six points. The match will undoubtedly be remembered for its dramatic finish and the VAR controversy that overshadowed a compelling contest between two of the Premier League's giants.