Table-topping Dominant Manchester City stretched their impressive Premier League unbeaten run against newly promoted opposition to 32 matches following a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Ipswich Town at the Etihad Stadium.
An emotionally charged atmosphere off the pitch saw home supporters boo the Premier League anthem pre-match. While City initially struggled for early momentum, they eventually found their rhythm.
Ruben Dias forced a stunning stop from Christian Walton, and moments later, Jeremy Doku set up Phil Foden to break the deadlock.
However, Ipswich responded immediately. Abdoul Ouattara played a precise pass behind Marc Guéhi to find Daizen Maeda, who calmly slotted home the equalizer.
The visitors nearly took a shock lead through Emersonn, but City quickly restored order when Erling Haaland met Mateo Kovacić’s precise cross to head the hosts back in front. Walton was called into action once again before the break, producing another fine save to deny Dias.
City Turn Up the Pressure
Ipswich defended resolutely in the second half, knowing chances would be limited. Emersonn and Nico O’Reilly both saw headed opportunities drift wide, while Enzo Fernández fired a 25-yard free-kick over the bar.
City’s persistence finally paid off when Haaland burst through the heart of the Ipswich defense to coolly slot home his second goal of the match, effectively sealing the victory.
A Thrilling Finish
Although Ipswich grabbed a late consolation penalty through Zian Flemming, the hosts comfortably held on. A late VAR intervention denied Haaland a hat-trick, but City secured their seventh consecutive victory to open the Premier League season. A feat previously achieved by only two teams in PL history, both of whom went on to lift the title.
Man of the Match: Erling Haaland (Manchester City)