By Obaloluwa Joshua, LAGOS
Manchester City scored twice in the closing stages to secure a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
The victory gave new City manager Enzo Maresca a winning start to his Premier League campaign.
Bournemouth stunned the hosts by taking the lead through Marcus Tavernier in the 26th minute.
Evanilson delivered an inviting ball across the area, with Tavernier arriving at the back post to fire past Gianluigi Donnarumma.
City struggled to find a way past a resilient Bournemouth defence despite dominating for long periods.
Erling Haaland had opportunities to get the hosts back into the contest, while Marc Guéhi also headed wide from a promising position early in the second half.
Bournemouth goalkeeper Djordje Petrović was also called into action as City increased the pressure in search of an equaliser.
Maresca’s substitutions eventually made the difference, with Rayan Cherki playing a key role in the dramatic turnaround.
Guéhi finally restored parity in the 84th minute, rising highest to power home Cherki’s corner and give City renewed hope.
The hosts then completed the remarkable comeback one minute into stoppage time.
Cherki released Joško Gvardiol inside the box and the Croatian calmly dispatched the ball beyond Petrović.
Gvardiol’s effort was initially ruled out for offside, but the decision was overturned following a VAR review, sparking wild celebrations inside the Etihad Stadium.
The result ensured City opened their 2026/27 Premier League campaign with maximum points, while Bournemouth were left to rue their inability to protect a lead they had held until the final six minutes of normal time.
Manchester City will travel to face Crystal Palace in their next league fixture, while Bournemouth will host Everton.
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