Manchester City hosted Tottenham at the Etihad and played a pulsating encounter which ended in a 2-2 draw. City had ten times more attempts on goal to Spurs, but the Premier League holders just couldn’t find the back of the net the third time (legally).
Spurs were pinned in their own half and City played some delightful football. De Bruyne whipped in a brilliant ball on Sterling’s head who finished brilliantly. However, City’s joys were short-lived as Lamela scored from long range as Ederson’s positioning in goal was awful. De Bruyne was once again the chief creator as he set up Aguero for City’s second. He could have had a hattrick of assists, but Gundogan missed a great chance. City went in at half time 2-1 up.
The second half was much of the same as Spurs were struggling to play it out from the back. However, they struck against the run of play through a set-piece as Lucas Moura scored just after coming on through a header. Late drama ensued as Gabriel Jesus grabbed what seemed like a winner in stoppage time. However, it was Deja vu for Pep’s men again as VAR ruled out City’s third goal as there was a slight handball from Laporte in the build-up. Ederson faced three shots in the game, and just two on target and the game ended 2-2. Meanwhile, City had 30 attempts on Lloris’ goal.
Ederson 4
Looked overconfident and didn’t anticipate Lamela’s shot coming in as he was well off his line and positioned onto the near post. Wasn’t required much but was behind one glaring error which costed City.
Nicolas Otamendi 8
Was strong and physical in his challenges and read the game well. Looked threatening during set-pieces.
Aymeric Laporte 7
Wasn’t required much defensively and took care of whatever came his way.
Oleksandr Zinchenko 6.5
Looked knackered as the game went on. Took a few long-range attempts and provided a decent attacking outlet from the left. Was almost caught out in the end by Moura but Otamendi covered up for him.
Kyle Walker 7
His pace and intensity made a lot of difference down the right. Just couldn’t find the final ball today.
Rodri 6.5
A controlled performance from the Spaniard. Played simple passes and kept the game moving.
Ilkay Gundogan 7
Should have scored in the first half. Linked up play well and took a few delightful touches.
Kevin De Bruyne 8
Scary that City won the title almost without him last season. Bossed the midfield in the first half and put in some delightful crosses which got him two assists. Tapered off as the game went on, but he was simply untouchable in the first 45.
Bernardo Silva 7.5
Once again, great perseverance and tenacity. The Portuguese is Mr Consistent for City as he hardly puts a foot wrong. Linked up play well and worked his socks off. Played a significant role in not letting Spurs play from the back.
Raheem Sterling 7
Showed great strength on the ball and made some smart runs. Finished well for the opener.
Sergio Aguero 6.5
Had some good moments but wasn’t able to get his shots away. Got his mandatory goal from close quarters. Was visibly unhappy after being substituted around the hour mark.
Substitutes
Gabriel Jesus 6
Provided energy after coming on and looked sharp. Was composed in front of goal to score but it was chalked off later on.
Riyad Mahrez 5
Gave the ball away a few times after coming on
David Silva N/A
Wasn’t involved much after coming on.
