Manchester City secured the top spot in the Premier League with a thrilling 5-3 victory over Sunderland at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. The win came despite a hat-trick from Sunderland's Brian Brobbey, who scored three goals in a highly entertaining match. City's Enzo Fernandez opened the scoring with his first goal since joining from Chelsea for a record £125 million. However, Sunderland showed resilience and Brobbey's treble kept his team in contention until the final stages.
Sunderland had won their first European match in 53 years against AZ Alkmaar in midweek but were unable to build on that momentum against City. Despite taking the lead three times, City ultimately emerged victorious, with Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo also scoring for the home team. Brobbey's hat-trick was not enough to secure a point for Sunderland, who were ultimately outscored by City's attacking prowess. The win marked a perfect start for City's new manager, Enzo Maresca.
Maresca's side made life hard for themselves, with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma having a nervy performance. However, the Italian goalkeeper was ultimately helped by his teammates, including Erling Haaland, who scored the final goal to seal the three points. The win ensured that Haaland has scored against every side he has faced in the Premier League. Maresca expressed relief at the win, stating that he would have preferred a more comfortable 1-0 victory.
In another match, Manchester United drew 1-1 with Fulham, with Matheus Cunha scoring a crucial equaliser in the 89th minute. The draw leaves United just two points outside the relegation zone, with manager Michael Carrick under increasing pressure. United had taken the lead through a Lisandro Martinez own goal, but Cunha's late strike salvaged a point for the visitors. The draw edges Fulham off the foot of the table, with Tottenham dropping to the bottom.
United's struggles have continued, with the team taking just five points from their opening five games. They were also dumped out of the League Cup by Brighton in midweek, surrendering a 2-0 lead at home for the first time in 50 years. The international break will provide a welcome respite for Carrick, who will be looking to regroup and improve his team's fortunes.
In a separate match, Liverpool secured a 1-0 win over Bournemouth, with Alexander Isak scoring the only goal. The win marked a successful return for Andoni Iraola, who was given a warm reception by the Bournemouth fans. Iraola had led Bournemouth into Europe for the first time in the club's history but has endured an up-and-down start at Liverpool.
The Premier League table is beginning to take shape, with City and Liverpool emerging as early frontrunners. However, the likes of United and Fulham will be looking to improve their fortunes and climb the table. The international break will provide a chance for teams to regroup and recharge before the next round of matches.
Key points
- Manchester City took top spot in the Premier League with a 5-3 win over Sunderland.
- Manchester United drew 1-1 with Fulham, with Matheus Cunha scoring a late equaliser.
- Liverpool secured a 1-0 win over Bournemouth, with Alexander Isak scoring the only goal.
