Van Dijk likened the tense 2-2 draw against United to a defeat

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk expressed his frustration following a tense 2-2 draw against Manchester United, likening the outcome to a defeat in the Premier League title race. Despite dominating the match, Liverpool needed a late Mohamed Salah penalty to salvage a point after conceding goals from Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo.

The draw leaves Liverpool trailing leaders Arsenal on goal difference and just one point ahead of Manchester City, intensifying the competition with only seven games remaining.

Van Dijk lamented his team’s missed opportunities, stating, “It feels like a loss. It is our fault again. We had so many chances and we should finish the game off.”

Liverpool’s failure to secure victory could prove costly in their pursuit of a 20th English top-flight title, matching United’s record. Manager Jurgen Klopp echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need for composure despite their dominant performance.

Despite United’s struggles this season, Liverpool has been unable to secure a victory in three encounters. Klopp highlighted his team’s missed chances and emphasized the importance of remaining focused in such crucial matches.

The match took a dramatic turn when Fernandes capitalized on a defensive error to score a stunning lob from inside Liverpool’s half, shifting the momentum in favor of United. Mainoo then extended United’s lead with a superb strike, leaving Klopp visibly frustrated on the touchline.

Salah’s successful penalty reduced the deficit for Liverpool, but they were unable to find a winning goal, leaving them with a single point that does little to bolster their title aspirations.

Meanwhile, United’s hopes of Champions League qualification were also dealt a blow, as they continue to struggle despite glimpses of improvement under manager Erik ten Hag.

Despite the disappointment of dropping points, Ten Hag expressed pride in his team’s progress and the potential they possess. However, he acknowledged the need to rectify costly mistakes that have hindered their recent performances.

The draw leaves both teams facing uncertainty in their respective campaigns, with Liverpool and United reflecting on missed opportunities as the title race heats up.