United vs Liverpool: Mainoo’s late goal lifts United to 3-2 win over rivals

MANCHESTER: Manchester United secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over fierce rivals Liverpool on Sunday, with Kobbie Mainoo striking late to seal the win and confirm United’s return to the Champions League after a two-year absence.

United made a blistering start at Old Trafford as Matheus Cunha opened the scoring in the sixth minute before Benjamin Sesko doubled the lead just eight minutes later, putting the hosts firmly in control early on.

Liverpool fought back strongly after the break. Dominik Szoboszlai pulled one back in the 47th minute following a costly error by Amad Diallo, before Cody Gakpo levelled the score nine minutes later after a mistake involving Senne Lammens and Alexis Mac Allister.

With the match finely poised, Mainoo delivered the decisive moment in the 77th minute, firing home from the edge of the box to spark wild celebrations among the home crowd.

The win lifts United to 64 points in third place with three games remaining, while Liverpool remain fourth on 58 points, level with Aston Villa, who have a game in hand in the race for Champions League qualification.