Manchester City secured a thrilling 5-3 victory over Sunderland on Sunday, with Erling Haaland scoring his eighth goal of the game. The win, despite Sunderland's Brian Brobbey netting a hat trick, marked a significant milestone for Haaland. His goal, initially chalked off due to offside but later overruled by VAR, was his 117th in the Premier League. This achievement puts him at the top of the Golden Boot chase with five goals this season.
Haaland's goal against Sunderland was particularly notable as it meant he had scored against each of the 25 clubs he has faced in the Premier League for City. Previously, Sunderland was the only club he had played but failed to score against, having been goalless in two matches against them last season. This milestone showcases Haaland's consistency and ability to score against various opponents.
The match itself was an exciting encounter, with Enzo Fernández, Rayan Cherki, and two goals from Antoine Semenyo putting City ahead before Haaland struck in the 81st minute. Sunderland's Brian Brobbey scored a hat trick, becoming the first player since Jamie Vardy six years ago to achieve this feat against City. This was also the first hat trick in the top flight by a Sunderland player since Jermain Defoe a decade ago.
The win for City marked their fifth consecutive Premier League victory under manager Enzo Maresca. This achievement puts Maresca in the company of esteemed managers who have also won their first five Premier League games in charge of a club. These include Carlo Ancelotti at Chelsea, Pep Guardiola at Man City, and Ole Gunnar Solskjær at Man Utd.
In the Premier League Golden Boot chase, Haaland currently leads with five goals this season. Alexander Isak, who scored Liverpool's winner against Bournemouth on Sunday, trails with four goals. The competition for the top scorer title is heating up, with several players vying for the position.
Sunderland's performance, despite the loss, showed resilience and attacking prowess. The team's ability to score three goals against a strong opponent like City is a positive takeaway. For City, the win solidifies their position in the league and highlights their depth and ability to score from various sources.
The match between City and Sunderland provided an exciting spectacle for fans, with eight goals scored in total. The game showcased the attacking talents of both teams and the individual brilliance of players like Haaland and Brobbey. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how these players and teams continue to perform.
Key points
- Erling Haaland has scored against all 25 Premier League clubs he has faced for Manchester City.
- Manchester City's win over Sunderland marked their fifth consecutive Premier League victory under manager Enzo Maresca.
- Haaland leads the Premier League Golden Boot chase with five goals this season.
