Two of the greatest icons in world football transcended on Merseyside to watch the crucial clash between Liverpool and Manchester United in the race for the Champions League places - and they wo n't have bee disappointed . One of the best players to ever play the game , Pele , was in the stands to watch two of England 's most successful clubs go head-to-head , as the away side came away victorious . The Brazilian was spotted standing next to Manchester United vice-chairman Ed Woodward and looked in a buoyant mood throughout the match . Pele ( left ) was spotted next to Manchester United vice-chairman Ed Woodward at Anfield . The Brazilian looked happy to be a guest to see Liverpool host United in the Premier League clash . Pele poses for a picture with Sir Bobby Charlton and Sir Alex Ferguson . Louis van Gaal was given a warm greeting by Pele before the match as the away side arrived at Anfield . Juan Mata ( left ) scored a superb double to help Manchester United to victory over Liverpool . Pele is in England to continue his promotion of a national sandwich brand Subway and spent time with former Liverpool legends Robbie Fowler and Steve McManaman earlier in the week . Legendary United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was also in attendance at Anfield as he continues to support the club he spent so many successful years . With the race for the Champions League places hotting up , Brendan Rodgers knew that a win would have seen them leapfrog their opponents into fourth . Steven Gerrard was sent off just 43 seconds after coming on as a substitute in Liverpool 's defeat . Sir Alex Ferguson ( centre ) waves to the United fans as he arrives at Anfield for the crucial clash . Despite Louis van Gaal coming under scrutiny this season , the Dutchman has his side in the European places and will count this campaign as a success if they can finish in the top four - and this result will go a long way to making sure they do just that . But two goals from Juan Mata and a red card just 43 seconds after coming on for Steven Gerrard condemned his side to a resounding defeat . Daniel Sturridge pulled a goal back for the home side to give them a glimmer of hope when he beat David De Gea at his near post . Pele was introduced to the Liverpool crowd at half-time and was greeted with a standing ovation . The former Red Devils boss looked in good spirits to see his old side take the lead thanks to Juan Mata .
Pele and Sir Alex Ferguson are in the stands for the Premier League clash . Both sides are still hoping to end up in the Champions League final . READ : Manchester United beat Liverpool 1 - 0 at Anfield in crucial moments . Juan Mata scored an impressive double to put Manchester United in front . Daniel ##ley pulled him back when he beat De Gea at his near post .