LONDON – Manchester City defeated Liverpool in a thrilling 3-2 victory on Thursday at the Etihad Stadium in the League Cup, with Nathan Ake’s header serving as the game-winning goal.
Following the World Cup break, two of the biggest names in English football returned to competitive play in this last-16 match, with City’s Kevin De Bruyne standing out in the midfield.
Erling Haaland and Riyad Mahrez gave Premier League winners City the lead twice, but Liverpool quickly equalized with goals from Fabio Carvalho and Mohamed Salah.
But shortly before the hour mark, Ake made it 3-2, and the visitors were unable to score a third equalizer.
“Both teams were outstanding with great level and effort after the World Cup and a long time of not playing,” City manager Pep Guardiola told Sky Sports.
“Liverpool are so difficult; when they play well, they obliterate you.”
