City’s Impressive Six-Goal Victory Marred by Haaland’s Injury Scare
Manchester City surged to the summit of the Premier League after an electrifying performance by Jeremy Doku ignited a 6-1 victory over Bournemouth. However, the champions’ emphatic win was clouded by an injury scare to Erling Haaland.
Pep Guardiola’s squad dismantled Bournemouth with a whirlwind of three goals in just seven minutes during the latter stages of the first half at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.
Belgium’s winger Doku led the charge, netting the opening goal and providing the setup for Bernardo Silva’s strike. Manuel Akanji deflected Doku’s shot into the net for City’s third goal, while Phil Foden added the fourth following another assist by Doku. Silva secured his brace, courtesy of yet another assist by Doku, making it five goals, and Nathan Ake wrapped up the demolition job for City.
Nevertheless, Guardiola has reason to be anxious about Haaland’s fitness, as the Norwegian striker was substituted at half-time due to a first-half injury. Haaland’s availability for City’s upcoming matches against Young Boys in the Champions League and Chelsea in the Premier League is uncertain, with the international break following the game against Chelsea possibly providing an opportunity for his recovery.
City has rallied with four consecutive victories in all competitions since their defeat to title rivals Arsenal in October, demonstrating their unwavering determination to add more silverware after last season’s impressive achievements.
City maintains a perfect record against Bournemouth in their last 14 encounters across all competitions, with the Cherries still awaiting their first-ever victory against the Manchester club after 20 unsuccessful attempts.
Guardiola’s team has triumphed in every home game in all competitions in 2023 and currently leads the league, one point ahead of Tottenham. Ange Postecoglou’s side could regain the top spot if they defeat Chelsea on Monday.
Bournemouth’s manager, Andoni Iraola, who recently secured his first Premier League win against Burnley, faced insurmountable odds as City laid siege to their goal.
City’s dominance was eventually rewarded with Doku’s brilliant finish in the 30th minute, after an impressive one-two with Rodri.
Three minutes later, Doku turned provider, setting up Silva’s goal. In the 37th minute, Doku’s low 20-yard strike, with a deflection off Akanji, extended City’s lead.
Foden, who replaced Haaland, ensured that City’s momentum remained intact by scoring in the 64th minute. Bournemouth pulled one back through Luis Sinisterra’s composed shot in the 74th minute.
Silva added another from Doku’s exquisite long pass in the 83rd minute, and Ake headed in a goal five minutes later, sealing City’s comprehensive victory.
