Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk expressed disappointment after their dramatic 2-2 draw against Manchester United on Sunday, likening the result to a defeat in the Premier League title race. Despite dominating most of the game, Liverpool needed a late Mohamed Salah penalty to salvage a point after conceding spectacular goals from Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo.

The draw leaves Liverpool trailing leaders Arsenal on goal difference, with just one point ahead of Manchester City, intensifying the already tight title race with seven games remaining. Despite United's struggles this season, Liverpool has failed to secure a win against them in three meetings this season, including an FA Cup quarter-final loss three weeks ago and a goalless draw at Anfield in December.

Van Dijk lamented Liverpool's missed opportunities, stating, "It feels like a loss... We had so many chances and we should finish the game off." The Reds, aiming for their 20th English top-flight title under Jurgen Klopp, will rue their inability to capitalize on numerous opportunities during the match, similar to their FA Cup encounter where they squandered several chances.

Liverpool dominated the first half with 15 shots compared to United's none, yet they failed to capitalize fully. Despite leading 1-0 at halftime through Luis Diaz's goal, Liverpool's wastefulness in front of goal allowed United to make a comeback. Fernandes' audacious lob over goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher from midfield provided United with momentum, and Mainoo's brilliant curling shot put them ahead.

Klopp acknowledged Liverpool's dominance but stressed the need for composure and clarity in critical moments. He expressed disappointment over not capitalizing on their opportunities but remained determined to continue fighting for the title. Despite the setback, Liverpool failed to secure a late winner, handing Arsenal an advantage in the title race due to their superior goal difference.

The draw also complicates United's bid for Champions League qualification, as they are now 11 points adrift of fourth-placed Aston Villa. While United's improvement under manager Erik ten Hag is evident, their inconsistency in holding onto leads has been a recurring issue.

Ten Hag, while disappointed with dropping points from winning positions, expressed pride in his team's improvement and potential. However, he acknowledged the need to address the team's mistakes, particularly in crucial moments, to achieve better results.

Overall, the draw at Old Trafford adds further intrigue to the Premier League title race and raises questions about both Liverpool's and United's aspirations for the remainder of the season.

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