Manchester United vs Liverpool is one of soccer’s greatest rivalries. It has produced unforgettable matches over the years and the teams are set to face off again on 5 January in the Premier League.
Fans from around the world follow this rivalry. The teams always bring drama and excitement. Although Liverpool (1.79) are top of the Premier League and Manchester United (208.06) are languishing in mid-table, this fixture is bound to bring an edge.
There have been several historic clashes between the teams in the past and those who love soccer betting may want to analyse these when attempting to predict how the Premier League fixture at Anfield will unfold.
1977 FA Cup Final: Liverpool’s Treble Hopes Dashed
Liverpool were chasing an historic treble in 1977. They had already secured the league title and were set to play the European Cup final. However, Manchester United spoiled their party. United won 2-1 at Wembley. Goals from Stuart Pearson and Jimmy Greenhoff sealed the victory. This match is still remembered for its high stakes and intensity.
The significance of this fixture doubled 22 years later when United became the first team in English history to win the treble. This still gets brought up in debates over whether United or Liverpool is England’s biggest club.
1999 FA Cup Fourth Round: The Comeback Kings
Manchester United’s treble-winning season featured many dramatic moments. One of them came against Liverpool in the FA Cup. The Reds thought they had the match under control. However, time proved otherwise.
Michael Owen gave Liverpool an early lead. However, Dwight Yorke equalised in the 89th minute. Next, Ole Gunnar Solskjær scored the winner in stoppage time, breaking Liverpool’s hearts.
2009: Liverpool’s 4-1 Triumph at Old Trafford
Liverpool’s 2008/09 season included a statement win over Manchester United. The match took place at Old Trafford. Few expected the dominant performance that unfolded.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored the opener for United. Liverpool responded with goals from Fernando Torres, Steven Gerrard, Fabio Aurelio, and Andrea Dossena. This crushing defeat highlighted the fierce competition between the teams.
2016 Europa League Clash: Liverpool Dominate
The rivalry extended to European competition in 2016. Liverpool and Manchester United met in the Europa League round of 16. This was the first time they faced each other in Europe.
Liverpool dominated the tie, winning 3-1 on aggregate. Philippe Coutinho’s stunning goal at Old Trafford secured their progress. The matches showcased the passion and tension of this rivalry on the continental stage.
2021: A Historic 5-0 Victory for Liverpool
Liverpool humiliated Manchester United in October 2021. The Premier League clash at Old Trafford ended in a 5-0 win for the visitors. To date, this remains one of the most shocking results in the rivalry’s history.
Mohamed Salah scored a hat-trick, with Naby Keïta and Diogo Jota also finding the net. United’s defence crumbled under relentless pressure. The match highlighted Liverpool’s dominance during this era, which United will be looking to put paid to under Ruben Amorim.
Manchester United vs Liverpool has delivered countless iconic moments and each clash adds another chapter to their historic rivalry. Fans eagerly await the next thrilling encounter.