Man City opened their Premier League campaign with a big comeback as they scored two late goals to defeat Bournemouth 2-1. This win marks the first competitive victory for Enzo Maresca as Man City coach following the team’s 3-0 loss to Arsenal in the Community Shield.
While City dominated possession throughout the match and in the first half, they were always going to be susceptible to a counter-attack. The move started down the right as Smith played a long ball to Rayan, who then played it on to Evanilson. The Brazilian striker played a superb ball onto a plate for Tavernier, who scored at the back post to give Bournemouth the lead.
The pressure continued to grow throughout the second half, but the defining moment was in the 63rd minute when Rayan Cherki was brought on by Maresca. City continued to knock on the door and finally found their moment in the 84th minute. Cherki played a wonderful corner into the box, and it was Marc Guehi who found the back of the net. The English center-back, who played in midfield today, was in acres of space and benefited from Bournemouth’s poor defending.
The heartbreak for Bournemouth continued as City found a very late winner. Cherki played a wonderful ball through the final line to free Josko Gvardiol in space. It was a tidy finish from the defender, but the assistant referee instantly raised their flag. After VAR review, it was determined that Gvardiol was onside and the late winner for City was valid.
Next up for City is a trip to Selhurst Park to play Crystal Palace on Friday, August 28.
