Liverpool v Man City

Yellow Card Ryan Gravenberch

Back into the action we go, then, as Liverpool kick-off the second half! Hopefully, there'll be a spark to ignite this clash.

With their early confidence in this one, and five efforts attempted, Liverpool have worked up to an xG of 0.42. That said, the final ball looks to be found wanting for both teams, especially with City operating around a 0.07 xG. The battle across the park hints at the welcome City may receive from teams up and down the league following their recent spell under the financial spotlight. There were 18 fouls in that first half, with Liverpool committing 10 and their visitors tallying eight to contribute to the most in the first half of a Premier League game at Anfield since Liverpool v Arsenal in November 2021 (also 18). This game hinges around which of these sides can break out of the mire first. At the time of writing, the Opta Supercomputer gives the hosts a 24.8% in comparison to City's 41.9%. A draw sits at 33.3% given the action we've seen so far.

Half-time at Anfield, and despite some wild outside circumstances, the goalless first period ends in routine fashion. While there's been plenty of atmosphere and verbal blows traded in the stands between Kopites and Citizens alike, the action has only really been gently simmering down on the pitch. Half-chances have given glimpses of both sides' attacking potential, with Munoz and Gravenberch looking particularly impressive in transition for the Reds. However, as the momentum switched as the Sky Blues firmed audible barrages, the likes of Cherki, Ndiaye and Fernandez grew in confidence. Anderson, in particular, has impressed in the centre and looks built for this sort of occasion. This occasion, however, is in search of more decisive action in the second 45 minutes on Merseyside.

HALF-TIME: LIVEPOOL 0-0 MANCHESTER CITY

There will be a minimum of one added minute.