Gallery: Magical Cherki picks off Cherries!
Match Report Gvardiol strike caps dramatic City comeback in Premier League opener Just before the half-hour mark at the Etihad Stadium, the visitors broke forward and went ahead from an assured finish...
In a thrilling Premier League opener, Gvardiol struck a dramatic goal to secure a comeback victory for City. The French striker Marcus Tavernier gave the visitors the lead just before the half-hour mark, with an assured finish. Erling Haaland tested Bournemouth's goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, but the Norwegian was equal to the task.
Manager Massimo Maresca made a crucial substitution, bringing on Rayan Cherki from the bench after 63 minutes. Cherki showcased his creativity and skill, setting up Guéhi, who headed wide from a close-range corner. Moments later, Cherki rose to the occasion, flicking the ball into the path of Josko Gvardiol, who expertly slotted the ball into the bottom corner.
The goal was controversially disallowed for offside, but a swift VAR review confirmed its validity. The Etihad Stadium erupted with joy as City extended their lead.
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