As the match began, Liverpool manager Roy Evans was already seated on the bench, looking remarkably relaxed—almost as if he was confident his side would secure the win.
Both Pirlo and Lampard had come on as substitutes, replacing Larsson and Jackie McNamara respectively.
"Interesting changes from Manchester City—Pirlo and Lampard coming on early, giving the midfield a very different look."
Walford and the rest of the coaching staff stood calmly on the sidelines, their expressions serene. Behind them, however, the Anfield crowd jeered—seeing them as arrogant and overconfident, eager to witness their downfall in what they hoped would be a dramatic comeback.
Liverpool continued to play with their traditional English style, showing little creativity; their tactics were all too evident. As long as City avoided the mistakes they made in the first half, they wouldn't give the opposition any opportunities.
In the 60th minute, City executed a classic short combination play.
