Man City entered round 35 as the top team. Leeds United - on the other hand - are struggling to avoid relegation and have just changed their head coach for the second time this season. The huge difference in both strength and form between the two teams was clearly shown in the confrontation at the Etihad Stadium.
Leeds United actively played defensively with a low formation, using a large number of players to cover the goal. However, the visitors could not control the area in front of the penalty area. Man City also has more than just Erling Haaland who can score goals.
Man City completely overwhelmed Leeds.
Man City scored 2 goals in the first half with the same scenario. Leeds dropped deep, clustered, leaving space in front of the penalty area. Ilkay Gundogan came from the back, received a pass from Riyad Mahrez and fired a simple but dangerous shot to score for Man City.
The home team completely controlled the match. Leeds United could not keep the ball to organize attacks. Man City did not need to speed up the game but still maintained steady pressure on the opponent's defense. Leeds United's ball possession rate in the first half was only 15% (according to Whoscored statistics).
The game remained unchanged after the break. Man City continued to dominate their opponents who were barely able to defend. The home team created a few more chances, including a penalty, but Gundogan missed the chance to complete his hat-trick.
Gundogan scored 2 goals, breaking the record for the number of touches in a Premier League match.
Just a minute after the German midfielder hit the post from the penalty spot, he lost the ball, leading to Man City's goal. Rodrigo scored to reduce the score, rekindling hope for Leeds United. The visitors tried hard in the final minutes but could not create a surprise.
Man City won 3-1, continuing to top the Premier League table after round 35.
Tottenham 1-0 Crystal Palace
Wolverhampton 1-0 Aston Villa
Man City 2-1 Leeds
Bournemouth 1-3 Chelsea
Phuong Mai
Useful
Emotion
Creative
Unique
Wrath
Source
Comment (0)