Goodison Park, Liverpool: Bernardo Silva’s late strike silenced a raucous Goodison Park as Manchester City completed a stunning 3-1 comeback, leaving Everton shellshocked after holding the lead for most of the match.
Jack Harrison, on loan from Leeds, stunned the Etihad champions in the first half with a clinical finish to send the Toffees faithful into raptures. Everton, inspired by Harrison’s opener and Seamus Coleman’s tireless leadership, held firm against City’s early dominance.
However, Pep Guardiola’s halftime adjustments bore fruit within the second half. Phil Foden equalized with a precise volley, silencing the Everton roar and shifting the momentum. Julian Alvarez then converted a controversial penalty after a VAR review, putting City in the lead for the first time.
Just as Everton contemplated a late fightback, a moment of madness from Jordan Pickford gifted City victory. The England goalkeeper’s rushed clearance rebounded off Alvarez, landing at the feet of the lurking Silva, who coolly slotted home to ensure a dramatic City win.
“It was a game of two halves,” Guardiola admitted post-match. “Everton’s first-half display was impressive, but we showed our character and quality in the second. Bernardo’s goal was the icing on the cake.”
Everton manager Frank Lampard, whose side has now lost four of their last five, praised his team’s spirit but lamented the late collapse. “We were so close,” Lampard lamented. “The first-half performance was one of our best this season, but individual errors at crucial moments cost us.”
The result extends City’s lead at the top of the table to six points, while Everton remain precariously close to the relegation zone. The comeback victory serves as a testament to City’s relentless title pursuit, while Everton’s late capitulation highlights the fine line between resilience and disappointment in the Premier League.
This game was a microcosm of the top-flight’s drama and unpredictability. With the title race heating up and Everton fighting for survival, the second half of the season promises even more captivating clashes.
