9 February 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Manchester City reignited the Premier League title race with a stunning comeback victory against Liverpool, producing a high-octane performance that underlined their championship pedigree and refusal to surrender the crown without a fight.
In a match billed as a potential title decider, City showed resilience, tactical maturity, and attacking ruthlessness to overturn a deficit and defeat Liverpool in a pulsating encounter that lived up to its enormous hype. The result not only boosted City’s title hopes but also ensured that the race at the top remains wide open heading into the decisive final stretch of the season.
Liverpool Strike First
Liverpool started on the front foot, pressing aggressively and exploiting spaces behind City’s high defensive line. Their early intensity paid off as they took the lead through a well-worked move, capitalising on quick transitions and sharp movement in the final third.
The goal briefly stunned the Etihad crowd and threatened to hand Liverpool a psychological edge in the title battle. Jurgen Klopp’s side looked confident, composed, and capable of controlling the tempo, with their midfield dictating play and their forwards constantly testing City’s backline.
City’s Response Shows Champion Mentality
Rather than panicking, Manchester City responded with patience and authority. Pep Guardiola’s side gradually wrestled control of possession, circulating the ball with purpose and forcing Liverpool to defend deeper.
City’s equaliser came after sustained pressure, as their intricate passing finally broke through Liverpool’s defence. The goal lifted the stadium and shifted the momentum decisively in City’s favour.
From that moment on, City looked relentless. Their midfield began winning second balls, the full-backs pushed higher, and the attacking players found pockets of space that Liverpool struggled to close down.
Turning the Game on Its Head
The winning goal epitomised City’s attacking philosophy—quick passing, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing. Exploiting a brief lapse in Liverpool’s defensive structure, City struck decisively to complete the comeback.
Despite Liverpool’s late attempts to force an equaliser, City defended resolutely, showing discipline and composure in the closing stages. The home side managed the game expertly, limiting clear chances and seeing out a famous victory.
Title Race Implications
The win has massive implications for the Premier League title race. With just a handful of games remaining, City’s comeback ensures that the gap at the top remains narrow, keeping pressure firmly on Liverpool and other contenders.
For City, the victory serves as a reminder of their experience in high-stakes situations. Time and again under Guardiola, they have proven capable of producing defining performances when the title is on the line.
Liverpool, meanwhile, will view the defeat as a setback but not a fatal blow. Klopp’s side remain firmly in contention, though questions will be asked about game management after surrendering a lead in such a crucial fixture.
What Lies Ahead
With fixtures coming thick and fast, the title race promises more drama. City’s comeback win has injected fresh belief into their camp, while Liverpool must regroup quickly to avoid further slips.
As the Premier League season heads toward its climax, this match may be remembered as a turning point—proof that the battle for the title is far from over.
Summary
Manchester City staged a thrilling comeback win over Liverpool, showcasing champion mentality and keeping the Premier League title race alive as the season heads into a dramatic final phase.