Shaqiri powers Liverpool to victory over Manchester United

Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United left Anfield Sunday empty-handed, after they lost 1-3 the scintillating and intense match against league leaders Liverpool.

Super substitute Xherdan Shaqiri was the star as he punished United with two goals within seven minutes, the first on the 73rd minute, just three minutes after replacing Naby Keita. Seven minutes after, he was on song again, with a second goal, which was deflected off a United player.

Shaqiri’s brace gave Liverpool a comfortable 3-1 lead going into the last 10 minutes of the game.

The game had ended all square 1-1 in the first half. Sadio Mane opened scoring in the 24th minute for Liverpool. Nine minutes after, Jesse Lingard equalised for the visitors.

But in the second half, Liverpool came in stronger, dominating possession and ceaselessly pounding the defence of United. But they were not rewarded for all the efforts until Shaqiri came in.

The victory sent Liverpool back to the summit of the league, overtaking defending champions Manchester City. Liverpool now have 45 points after 17 games, while City have 44 and Tottenham are on their heels with 39 points, in third position.