Manchester City defeated Liverpool 3-0 at Anfield in a Premier League match decided significantly by a controversial sending-off. Ryan Gravenberch, who had been Liverpool’s standout performer through the opening hour, received a red card for a second yellow following a challenge on Jeremy Doku when the score remained 0-0.
Gravenberch’s first yellow card came shortly after halftime for a challenge on City midfielder Elliot Anderson. Sky Sports analysts, including Jamie Carragher and Roy Keane, expressed strong criticism of both bookings, describing them as unduly harsh. Carragher characterized the first yellow as a “nothing challenge” and called the referee’s decision “shocking,” while Keane stated he did not see how the first caution could have been justified. The dismissal fundamentally shifted momentum in the contest.
City capitalized immediately after the red card was issued. Erling Haaland scored within two minutes and 37 seconds of Gravenberch’s dismissal, with Jeremy Doku doubling the advantage six minutes later. Rayan Cherki added a third goal with 12 minutes remaining. Prior to the sending-off, City had registered an expected goals figure of 0.16, indicating Liverpool had controlled the opening phase.
Analysts noted that Liverpool’s defending deteriorated significantly following the reduction to 10 men, with defensive vulnerabilities becoming apparent as City dominated possession and territory. Multiple commentators acknowledged that while Gravenberch’s second yellow card was described as “very soft” by Gary Neville, the combination of decisions created the pivotal turning point in what had been an evenly contested match through the first hour.
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