Manchester City have secured their seventh win in their seventh Premier League match of the season. In a narrow 3–2 victory over newly promoted Ipswich Town, the Sky Blues struggled, particularly in the second half. Once again, it was Haaland, with a brace, who secured the win.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca made six changes following the 2–4 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. Matheus Nunes, O’Reilly, Kovacic, Bouaddi, Ndiaye and Foden started in place of Khusanov, Gvardiol, Fernandez, Anderson, Semenyo and Cherki.
Haaland had the final say in the first half
As expected, Man City dominated proceedings, with Ruben Dias having the home side’s first two shots on goal (6’, 17’). Shortly afterwards, they took the lead. Doku found space on the left and then spotted Foden, who finished from the centre (19’). Ipswich had been virtually absent up front until then, but Maeda – who made Guehi look foolish – scored the equaliser almost immediately (21).
Emersonn had the visitors’ next attempt on goal (29), before Greaves made a save against Haaland at the other end (34). The Norwegian’s goal was only a matter of time, however, as a minute later he scored with a header from Kovacic’s cross (34’). Ruben Dias brought the first half to a close with a long-range shot saved by Walton (43.)
Ipswich are playing – but Haaland scores
After the break, the picture suddenly changed somewhat. Ipswich came out strongly, pressing high up the pitch. Man City struggled to cope and were fortunate that Emersonn failed to connect with the ball following a corner (55′). At the other end, O’Reilly then headed just wide of the goal (56′). The Sky Blues created nothing from open play – until Ndiaye set up Haaland. And the Norwegian didn’t need to be asked twice, netting his second (69′).
Haaland’s hat-trick complete – Flemming scores from the spot
It wasn’t Haaland’s last goal of the afternoon, but his third was ruled out due to an offside by the provider, Fernandez (85’). Shortly afterwards, the VAR had to step in again – a penalty was awarded to the visitors following a foul by Guehi on Fatawu. Flemming stepped up – and pulled one back (90’). Twelve minutes of added time were awarded. During that time, Ndiaye missed the chance to seal the win (90+6). Ipswich threw everything forward, but were unable to create any truly dangerous chances. Thus, Man City celebrated their seventh win in their seventh Premier League match.
Man City’s next fixture is on Tuesday (9.00 pm) in the Champions League against AEK Athens. This coming Saturday (1.30 pm), they face an away match at Aston Villa. Ipswich face Nottingham Forest as early as Friday (9.00 pm).
