Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola did not hold back his criticism of the match officials following a dramatic 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the English Premier League at Anfield on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
The game was decided in the dying minutes, as Erling Haaland calmly converted a penalty to secure City’s win. The strike also marked Haaland’s first-ever goal at Anfield in his Premier League career. Despite the late triumph, Guardiola suggested that City could have had a more convincing scoreline if a controversial Rayan Cherki goal had been allowed.
Cherki’s Disallowed Goal Sparks Debate
In a tense moment just before the final whistle, Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker had moved upfield to support his team’s attacking push. The ball fell to Rayan Cherki near the halfway line, who unleashed a long-range shot that sailed into the net.
However, the referee disallowed the goal, citing a tug-of-war between Haaland and Dominik Szoboszlai during the buildup. Szoboszlai later received a red card for a foul, but Cherki’s goal remained nullified, leaving Guardiola frustrated.
Speaking to BBC Match of the Day after the match, Guardiola’s comment was short but pointed:
“Come on, ref, just allow the goal and let’s go home.”
Guardiola Calls for Common Sense
During his post-match press conference, Guardiola elaborated on his concerns, arguing that the referee’s decision lacked common sense and consistency—qualities he believes should define officiating in the Premier League.
“Use some common sense, right? I know he pulled him, but how many times do we see players tug each other in a game and the referee lets it go? Allow the goal, the score becomes 3-1, Szoboszlai stays on the field, and everyone’s happy,” Guardiola explained.
Despite his frustrations, Guardiola acknowledged the importance of securing all three points at Anfield—a venue historically known as a fortress for Liverpool. The win reinforces City’s position in the title race while keeping the pressure on league leaders Arsenal.
Injury-Time Drama Seals the Victory
The climax of the match came deep into injury time when Alisson fouled Matheus Nunes inside the penalty area. The referee pointed to the spot, and Haaland stepped up to convert the penalty with composure, giving City the lead and ultimately the win.
Moments later, another unusual incident occurred: Cherki nearly scored from midfield, but Szoboszlai fouled Haaland as the ball headed toward goal. The Hungarian midfielder received a red card for denying a clear scoring opportunity, though this did not affect the final outcome.
Significance of the Anfield Triumph
This victory was only Manchester City’s third in their last 39 Premier League visits to Anfield, emphasizing just how rare and significant the result was. City’s ability to perform under pressure at one of the league’s most challenging venues demonstrates their mental resilience and tactical discipline.
The win also ensures the Premier League title race remains wide open. With City narrowing the gap on Arsenal, every point matters in the crucial second half of the season. Guardiola’s men now have renewed confidence as they prepare for upcoming fixtures that could shape the title race.
Haaland’s Heroics and City’s Strategy
Haaland’s penalty was a testament to his composure and clinical finishing, underscoring why he remains one of the Premier League’s most feared forwards. Guardiola praised Haaland’s mentality, noting that such decisive moments reflect the striker’s quality and importance to the team.
City’s approach to the game highlighted their tactical maturity. Even while navigating the emotional highs and lows of Anfield, the team maintained composure and executed Guardiola’s game plan effectively. Their ability to manage the late-game drama, including Cherki’s disallowed goal and the red card incident, shows the mental fortitude required to compete at the top of English football.
Looking Ahead
With three vital points secured, Manchester City now turn their attention to upcoming league fixtures, while Arsenal faces increased pressure to maintain their lead at the top of the table. Guardiola’s critique of the refereeing, while controversial, also emphasizes the high stakes of each Premier League match and the fine margins that can decide a title race.
City’s performance at Anfield demonstrates a blend of resilience, strategic planning, and star-quality finishing—a combination that could prove decisive in the final stretch of the season. For Guardiola and his squad, the focus now shifts to sustaining this form while navigating both domestic and European challenges.
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