Juba Touabi, Media365, published on Sunday December 29, 2024 at 5:45 p.m.
Manchester City scored a valuable victory (0-2) at the King Power Stadium against an eye-catching Leicester City team in the opening match of the 19th day of the Premier League.
In a duel where the Foxes never gave up, the realism of Pep Guardiola's men made the difference. From the kick-off whistled by Michael Oliver, Manchester City imposed their territorial domination. The Skyblues, led by Kevin De Bruyne as conductor, monopolized the ball, while Leicester City opted for a low block, ready to spring on the counter. However, the first alert came from the inevitable Erling Haaland (7th), who saw his attempt brilliantly diverted by Jakub Stolarczyk.
Haaland finds the net again
The Citizens found the fault in the 21st minute. On a long shot from Phil Foden repelled by Stolarczyk, Savinho perfectly followed and adjusted an unstoppable cross shot. This goal allowed Manchester City to take the lead in a first act which was nevertheless marked by defensive approximations. Leicester could have equalized on several occasions, notably on a header from Facundo Buonanotte which found the post (39th). The second half saw the Foxes show a more conquering face. Facundo Buonanotte and Jamie Vardy increased their attacks, but neither was able to deceive Ortega's vigilance. Manchester City, for their part, seemed in difficulty and struggled to get on track.
It was ultimately Erling Haaland who sealed the fate of the match. The Norwegian striker, perfectly served by Savinho after a nice collective movement, scored with a header (74th), scoring his 14th league goal of the season. This second goal cut the Foxes' legs, despite a final attempt from Vardy on the crossbar (89th). For his 500th on the Manchester City bench, Pep Guardiola was able to enjoy a victory that was certainly laborious, but precious. With this victory, the Skyblues are back on the right path after long difficult weeks.
