Manchester City rally late to beat Bournemouth
Manchester City needed a dramatic late rally to prevent an upset against Bournemouth, overturning a deficit in the closing minutes to secure all three points in Enzo Maresca’s first Premier League match as manager.
The mood around the Etihad was heading towards frustration after Bournemouth spent most of the afternoon protecting a deserved lead earned through Marcus Tavernier. The visitors had capitalised on a swift attacking move before the break and looked increasingly capable of holding on for a statement victory.
City dominated possession and created opportunities but struggled to convert them. Erling Haaland, whose goals have often defined City’s early-season form, endured a rare off-day in front of goal as chance after chance went begging.
With Bournemouth sensing a famous result, City finally broke through from a set piece. Marc Guehi, deployed in an unfamiliar midfield role, rose to head home and shift momentum firmly in favour of the hosts.
The turnaround was completed moments later when Josko Gvardiol found space inside the penalty area and beat the goalkeeper with a low finish. Although the assistant’s flag initially denied City the goal, a VAR review confirmed it and sparked celebrations among the home supporters.
The victory gives Maresca breathing space after a difficult start to his reign, which had already included a Community Shield defeat. While the performance exposed areas that still require improvement, the result ensures the Italian begins the league campaign with a win rather than immediate questions about life after Pep Guardiola.
For Bournemouth, the outcome was particularly painful given how close they came to extending a remarkable unbeaten streak. Marco Rose’s side defended with discipline, threatened on the counterattack and appeared on course to leave Manchester with at least a point.
Despite the disappointment, Bournemouth’s display offered evidence that the club can remain competitive following last season’s historic campaign and managerial transition. Their unbeaten run may be over, but their performance suggested they will continue to trouble the league’s top sides.
City, meanwhile, escaped with the result they needed, turning what looked destined to be an opening-weekend setback into a comeback victory.
Source: citinewsroom
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