Manchester United boosted their hopes of a top-four finish and a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League with a dramatic 3-2 victory over fierce rivals Liverpool in a pulsating Premier League clash on May 3, 2026.
In a fixture loaded with significance for the race to the top four, United made a blistering start at Old Trafford.
Their early intensity paid off when Matheus Cunha opened the scoring, reacting quickest to convert a deflected effort after an initial attempt was blocked.
The hosts doubled their lead before the 15-minute mark through Benjamin Šeško, who capitalised on a rebound after Bruno Fernandes had seen his header saved by Freddie Woodman.
United’s dominance in the opening stages left Liverpool struggling to gain a foothold in the match.
Liverpool showed glimpses of danger before the break, with Cody Gakpo going close, but they went into half-time trailing 2-0 after a below-par first-half display.
The visitors, managed by Arne Slot, responded strongly after the interval.
Dominik Szoboszlai pulled one back early in the second half following a costly error, before Liverpool completed a remarkable comeback just minutes later.
A defensive lapse allowed Alexis Mac Allister to intercept possession, setting up Szoboszlai to assist Gakpo, who calmly slotted into an empty net to make it 2-2.
With momentum firmly on Liverpool’s side, United looked vulnerable.
However, they rallied late in the game and found a decisive third goal through Kobbie Mainoo, who struck from the edge of the area after a partial clearance, sending the Old Trafford crowd into celebration.
Liverpool pushed for a late equaliser, with Gakpo again testing United’s defence, but the hosts held firm to secure all three points.
The victory not only completes a rare league double over Liverpool for United, but also strengthens their position in the race for Champions League qualification.
Meanwhile, despite the defeat, Liverpool remain in contention for a top-five finish, holding a points cushion with only a few games remaining.
