The eruption of joy was so intense that it likely resonated all the way to Manchester and perhaps even London. When Mohamed Salah scored from the penalty spot, securing a two-goal lead for Liverpool, the Anfield crowd knew the task was finally accomplished.
The Kop, although not on edge, had been experiencing growing unease as Manchester City increased the pressure on Liverpool's defense in pursuit of an equalizer to Cody Gakpo's early goal. The initial celebration of Salah's goal evolved into a deafening roar in the 80th minute, with the stadium echoing to the tune of "Allez, Allez, Allez".
This was one of those moments that had to be experienced firsthand – a collective realization that not only had City been defeated, but Liverpool had also overcome another significant obstacle in their unexpected Premier League title challenge under Arne Slot's inaugural season.
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Shortly after, a visibly agitated Pep Guardiola was seen on the touchline, holding up six fingers to the home crowd, referencing the number of titles he had won with City.
However, this gesture also highlighted the disparity in European titles between the two clubs, with Liverpool having claimed the honor six times, a feat City has yet to match. Undeniably, Manchester's team has been the powerhouse of the modern era.
This makes their current downfall - a sixth loss in seven matches across all competitions and a fourth consecutive Premier League defeat - all the more shocking. Liverpool seized the opportunity from the get-go, launching an aggressive attack on a visibly anxious, injury-ridden City.
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However, until Salah's goal, there was a lingering sense that the visitors could escape another lacklustre performance due to their high calibre. Not this time around.
As it happened five seasons ago when Liverpool last clinched the title, a home victory against City at this point in the season created a gap that ultimately became decisive. Back then it was nine points, now it's 11.
