1080p.mp4 — Mc V Liv - 1st Half - Sky

The opening 35 minutes were relatively balanced, with Arne Slot noting that there was "a lot to like" from Liverpool's early performance. However, the game unraveled for the Reds late in the half:

Erling Haaland opened the scoring from the penalty spot. The penalty was awarded after Virgil van Dijk committed a "clumsy" foul on City's young talent, Nico O'Reilly, inside the box. MC v Liv - 1st half - sky 1080p.mp4

City were described as the better side, showing more clinical finishing despite Liverpool creating early chances. The opening 35 minutes were relatively balanced, with