Manchester City returned to winning ways at the Etihad Stadium by beating Nottingham Forest 3-0 in a match that stood out both for the return of Kevin De Bruyne and for the collective performance of the team led by Pep Guardiola. The Citizens put a winless streak behind them, demonstrating their offensive power and solidity in all lines against a Forest team that tried to compete, but lacked decisiveness at key moments.
Explosive Start And Game Control
City started the match with an intense and concise rhythm, making it clear that the objective was to regain the confidence lost in previous weeks. Just eight minutes in, Bernardo Silva opened the scoring after a masterful combination with De Bruyne. The Belgian, who returned to the starting lineup, showed why he is one of the best midfielders in the world, managing the tempo of the game and generating constant dangerous options.
Although Nottingham Forest tried to respond, their offense was unable to break through City's defensive barrier. Stefan Ortega Moreno, in charge of the home goal, made a crucial save from Morgan Gibbs-White, preventing what could have been an equalizer.
At times, the visiting team generated some chances, but failed to finish. A clear example was when Chris Wood missed a chance in front of goal after a mistake by De Bruyne.
Shortly before halftime, City extended the lead with a superb goal from their captain. De Bruyne received a precise pass from Jeremy Doku and, with a powerful shot into the top corner, made it 2-0, leaving the opposing goalkeeper with no response.
The Magic of Doku and Mastery in the Second Half
After the break, Manchester City maintained control and increased their lead thanks to an impressive individual move by Doku. In the 57th minute, the Belgian winger broke down the left flank, leaving several defenders behind him and finishing with an unstoppable shot to make it 3-0. This goal not only stood out for its execution, but also reflected the young attacker's talent and confidence.
Forest continued to look for an equalizer, but City's defense, led by Gvardiol and Akanji, was solid, while Jack Grealish also contributed defensively, blocking a dangerous shot from Alex Moreno. Despite the visitors' attempts, the Citizens never relinquished control of the game.
For their part, City kept looking for more goals. De Bruyne, Grealish and Haaland created further chances, but goalkeeper Matz Sels prevented the score from being even higher. De Bruyne received a standing ovation from the crowd when he was replaced by Rico Lewis, acknowledging his brilliant performance on his return.
Today defines the champion of the #CopaCentroamericana! 🏆
After the 1-1 draw in the first final, #Alajuelense 🇨🇷 -with the away goal in favor- receives #RealEsteli 🇳🇮, which needs to win or tie by two or more goals to be consecrated.
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- Betcris (@Betcris) December 4, 2024
A Victory That Revitalizes City
With this victory, Manchester City broke a seven-game winless streak, regaining confidence and showing clear signs of improvement. Kevin De Bruyne's performance was fundamental, not only for his goal and assist, but also for the security and leadership he brought to the team.
Nottingham Forest, although showing attitude, paid dearly for their mistakes in both areas. Their lack of effectiveness in front of goal and defensive lapses cost them dearly against an opponent of City's quality.
This result allows Pep Guardiola's team to stay in the fight for the top places in the Premier League, while Forest will have to analyze their shortcomings to remain competitive in the season. Manchester City, with their squad getting back key players such as De Bruyne, look set to return to their usual level and face the challenges ahead with greater determination.
