Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-01-31 22:00:07
Erling Haaland marked his return to Manchester City’s lineup as they secured a 3-1 victory over Burnley on Wednesday, solidifying their position as English champions. In another thrilling game, Tottenham managed to secure a 3-2 win over Brentford, moving them into the Premier League’s top four.
Haaland had been out of action for nearly two months due to a foot injury, but City demonstrated their strength in his absence, winning nine games and drawing one of the 10 matches he missed. Julian Alvarez, the Argentine forward, continued to impress as he celebrated his 24th birthday by scoring two goals that effectively sealed the game for City within the first 22 minutes at the Etihad. Alvarez scored with a header from Matheus Nunes’ cross and then again from a clever free-kick by Kevin De Bruyne. Rodri added a third goal for City just one minute into the second half, further solidifying their lead.
Despite the home crowd eagerly anticipating Haaland’s return, the Norwegian striker was only brought on by Pep Guardiola with 15 minutes remaining. However, it was Burnley who managed to find the back of the net next, breaking City’s streak of 22 consecutive goals in league meetings between the two teams. Ameen Al Dakhil scored a goal for Burnley in stoppage time, but it was only a consolation as they continue to struggle near the bottom of the table.
With this win, City moved up to second place in the league, just two points behind leaders Liverpool, pending the outcome of their match against Chelsea later on Wednesday. Tottenham, on the other hand, required a halftime team talk from manager Ange Postecoglou to overturn a halftime deficit and secure a comeback win against Brentford.
Neal Maupay gave Brentford the lead in the first half, but Tottenham responded with three quick goals early in the second period. Destiny Udogie scored from close range to level the game, before Brennan Johnson tapped in a cross from Timo Werner to put Tottenham ahead. Richarlison’s goal seemed to secure the win for Tottenham, but a mistake from Udogie allowed Ivan Toney to score for Brentford.
As a result of their victory, Tottenham moved into fourth place in the league, edging past Aston Villa based on goal difference in the race for a spot in the Champions League next season. Both matches made for an exciting night in the Premier League as the top of the table continues to be hotly contested.
