Manchester United hosted Liverpool FC at Old Trafford on Sunday, May 3, 2026, in a key Premier League clash that directly affected the race for Champions League qualification. The match kicked off at 14:30 GMT, with both sides entering the game separated by just three points.
United came in third with 61 points, while Liverpool sat fourth with 58. The result was expected to shape the final stretch of the season, especially with both teams aiming to secure a top-four finish.
Manchester United vs Liverpool Team News and Expected Lineups
Manchester United is dealing with defensive absences. Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martínez are both unavailable, forcing changes at the back. Despite that, United still has enough attacking quality to trouble Liverpool.
Liverpool’s biggest miss is Mohamed Salah, who is out with a muscle injury. His absence removes a major threat to a goal. There are also issues with the goal, with Alisson Becker and Giorgi Mamardashvili unavailable, meaning Freddie Woodman is expected to start.
That situation could be key. Facing United’s attack at Old Trafford is already difficult. Doing it with a third-choice goalkeeper raises the level of challenge.
Manchester United vs Liverpool Results Today: First Half Updates
Manchester United went into halftime with a strong 2–0 lead over Liverpool FC at Old Trafford after a dominant first-half display. The home side started fast and took control early, using a fluid attack that left Liverpool struggling to respond.
United opened the scoring in the 6th minute through Matheus Cunha, whose left-footed effort deflected off Alexis Mac Allister and found the far corner. The early goal set the tone for the match.
The lead doubled in the 14th minute when Benjamin Šeško scored his 10th league goal of the season, finishing a quick attacking move.
Off the pitch, concern grew as Sir Alex Ferguson was taken to the hospital before kickoff for precautionary checks.
United’s defense, led by Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven, held firm. At the break, United led 2–0, with five shots to Liverpool’s three and better control in key moments.
Form Guide and What’s at Stake
Under manager Michael Carrick, Manchester United have picked up momentum at the right time. Wins over Chelsea and Brentford have boosted confidence, and the team is now chasing a league double over Liverpool for the first time since the 2015/16 season.
Liverpool, led by Arne Slot, comes into this game on a three-match winning run in the league. That form has kept them firmly in the top-four race, but this is a bigger test away from home.
A United win would create breathing room. A Liverpool victory would pull them level and increase pressure heading into the final weeks.
Manchester United vs Liverpool Results Today: Premier League Live Score, Updates, Stats