26th December, 2024
In a thrilling encounter at the Etihad, Manchester City and Everton fought out a 1-1 draw, with drama unfolding right until the final whistle.
The match began with City in control, showcasing impressive team play. In the 14th minute, a deflected shot from Bernardo Silva put the hosts ahead after Jeremy Doku’s clever assist, sending the Etihad into raptures.
However, Everton responded strongly. In the 36th minute, Iliman Ndiaye latched onto a lofted cross from Abdoulaye Doucoure to equalize with a clinical finish into the top corner.
As the game progressed, City struggled to break down Everton’s resolute defence. Despite a series of near-misses, including a brilliant opportunity from Rico Lewis that soared over the bar.
Erling Haaland missed a penalty and later headed in the rebound but it was ruled offside.
With just minutes to go, the drama escalated. In added time, a crucial pass found Rico Lewis in the box, but he could only manage to blaze the ball over the bar, missing a golden opportunity to secure all three points.
The tension intensified in stoppage time as City threw everything forward, but the Everton defence held firm, clearing every dangerous cross.
In the dying moments, a frantic scramble inside the box saw a defender block Idrissa Gueye’s shot off the line, while Kevin De Bruyne’s dangerous corner was cleared away by Everton’s defence, marking the end of a hard-fought 1-1 draw.
