Manchester City, reigning Premier League champions, achieved an unprecedented feat by clinching their 17th consecutive home victory across all competitions. However, their arduous journey culminated in a hard-fought 1-0 triumph against Newcastle United on Saturday.
A moment of brilliance from Julian Alvarez secured the vital points for Pep Guardiola’s side, yet the palpable relief exhibited at the final whistle speaks volumes about Newcastle’s resolute performance.
City’s victory propelled them to a six-point tally from two games, matching Brighton and Hove Albion who earlier in the day triumphed over Wolverhampton Wanderers with a commanding 4-1 win.
Meanwhile, Manchester United’s aspirations to join City and Brighton at the summit of the nascent table were quashed as they succumbed to a 2-0 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur, marking Ange Postecoglou’s inaugural home match as head of the London club.
In a spirited comeback, Liverpool overturned a goal deficit to vanquish Bournemouth 3-1, though their endeavour concluded with ten players after Alexis MacAllister received a red card on his home debut.
Brentford demonstrated their dominance in London derbies, remaining undefeated in 11 successive encounters, as they cruised to a resounding 3-0 victory over Fulham. Fulham, however, concluded the match with ten men after Tim Ream was expelled for conceding a penalty.
Undeterred by the absence of Kevin de Bruyne, who underwent surgery after sustaining a hamstring injury in the 3-0 opening win over Burnley, Manchester City displayed resilience. This triumph resonated with added significance, marking their first home fixture since securing a treble last season, an achievement duly celebrated before kick-off at The Etihad Stadium.
Anticipating a pursuit of numerous trophies this season, City’s formidable prowess was lauded in an elaborate manner. Nevertheless, Newcastle’s spirited performance showcased why Guardiola had identified them as potential contenders for the Premier League title.
While Newcastle displayed fervour in the latter stages, City dominated the opening half. Julian Alvarez orchestrated the breakthrough with an emphatic strike in the 31st minute, capitalising on a pass from Phil Foden.
Newcastle’s determination grew after the interval; however, they encountered City’s impregnable defensive fortitude. Despite City’s attacking prowess, they demonstrated a resolute rearguard that defied Newcastle’s efforts to breach the goal.
Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s manager, observed, “There was a moment around 60–70 minutes in and I thought we could get control, but they are a very good team and played through the press a few times. They strangle you with the ball to a degree. You tire yourself out getting it back, and with fatigue, the decision-making goes slightly.”
In contrast, Tottenham showcased their resurgence, dispelling pre-season apprehensions with a spirited display against a lacklustre Manchester United. Pape Matar Sarr’s inaugural Premier League goal, powered high into the net following a deflected cross, combined with a late own goal by Lisandro Martinez, secured a 2-0 victory. This triumph propelled Tottenham to four points from two games.
Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham’s manager, enthused, “We want to entertain for sure but in terms of being successful… The atmosphere was incredible today. The energy the fans created was amazing.”
Brighton’s impressive season start continued, with a compelling 3-0 victory over Wolves. The match witnessed three goals in a devastating nine-minute interval during the second half. With a sensational solo goal in the 15th minute, Kaoru Mitoma started the scoring. Pervis Estupinan’s goal came in the first minute of the second half. Solly March contributed two goals in four minutes, both assisted by Julio Enciso.
Despite Liverpool’s earlier 9-0 conquest over Bournemouth, this encounter proved to be a tougher challenge. While Antoine Semenyo provided an early lead for Bournemouth, Liverpool demonstrated resilience with goals from Luis Diaz, Mohamed Salah, and Diogo Jota. Nevertheless, the gloss was diminished as Alexis MacAllister received a red card, resulting in Liverpool concluding the game with ten players.
Brentford continued their dominant streak in London derbies, securing a commanding 3-0 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage. Fulham’s fate was sealed as Tim Ream conceded a penalty in the 63rd minute, allowing Brentford to extend their lead to 2-0. Marco Silva, Fulham’s manager, lamented, “The game was finished from that moment.”
On Sunday, West Ham United confront Chelsea, while Aston Villa hosts Everton, with all four teams vying for their maiden win of the season.
