Manchester City defeated Liverpool 3‑0 at Anfield on Sunday, a win that striker [Erling Haaland](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erling_Haaland) said demonstrates the squad’s unity after the club was ruled guilty of breaching more than 100 [Premier League](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Premier_League) financial regulations, despite the looming sanction.
**Key facts**
- City’s victory put them three points clear at the top of the league table.
- The club faces a possible points deduction that could threaten relegation or strip titles.
- Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch received a red card before Haaland’s opening goal.
- Haaland described the win as a “mental battle” and praised the team’s character.
What did Haaland say?
Haaland told reporters that every member of [Manchester City](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manchester_City_F.C.) and its supporters would remember the night for a long time. He added, “It was hard, but we showed amazing character from back to front. So proud of everyone. It’s always tough to come here. Important to stay strong mentally, stick together and do what we can – play good football and fight together.”
How did the match unfold?
Haaland opened the scoring after Gravenberch’s dismissal, giving City the lead. Jeremy Doku and Rayan Cherki later added goals, silencing the Anfield crowd that had been chanting about the club’s guilty verdict. The visitors maintained composure throughout, despite the hostile atmosphere.
What did other players add?
Midfielder Elliot Anderson, playing his first Liverpool derby after moving from Nottingham Forest, echoed Haaland’s sentiment, saying, “Togetherness, fight, a tough place to come and we stuck together and fought for each other. We showed courage.” He noted the intense atmosphere in the first ten minutes but praised the team’s ability to quiet the crowd and improve after a sluggish first half.
What lies ahead for City?
The club is currently appealing the financial‑rules decision, while its Abu Dhabi‑based owners handle the legal implications. Haaland emphasized that the team’s focus remains on winning games: “You want to win games, it’s as simple as that. Perform well, play good football and win games. This was a mental battle.” He concluded that the squad is mentally strong and ready for the upcoming fixtures.