Late Kulusevski Header Stuns City in Six-Goal Thriller
Dejan Kulusevski’s dramatic 90th-minute header secured a thrilling draw for Tottenham against Manchester City at Etihad Stadium, denying the hosts a late victory. The six-goal spectacle included controversy when referee Simon Hooper blew for a foul on Erling Haaland, who had set up Jack Grealish for what appeared to be City’s winning goal.
Tottenham had initially taken the lead through Son Heung-min, only for the skipper to inadvertently divert the ball into his own net moments later. Phil Foden put City ahead before Giovani Lo Celso’s exquisite effort levelled the scores. Yves Bissouma’s loss of possession near the Spurs area allowed Haaland to set up Grealish, seemingly securing City’s victory until Kulusevski’s late intervention.
The pulsating encounter showcased both teams’ commitment to expansive football, with Tottenham avoiding a fourth consecutive Premier League defeat and holding the fifth position. City, dropping to third, sits three points ahead of Spurs on 30 points.
The contest, characterised by attacking flair, technical quality, and goal-scoring intent, exemplified the best of the Premier League. Despite City’s dominance in possession, Tottenham demonstrated resilience and quick play from the back, capitalising on their limited opportunities.
Tottenham’s opener, initiated from a City corner, showcased their ability to play out from the back, with Son’s explosive 40-yard run resulting in a goal. Ruben Dias’ interception denied Son a second, highlighting the visitors’ attacking threat. City’s period of dominance saw Haaland miss two crucial first-half chances, contributing to his evident frustration.
Foden’s goal, a result of a slick exchange involving Haaland, Doku, and Alvarez, demonstrated City’s overall excellence. The match’s sheer entertainment value, featuring six goals, 26 shots, and 18 corners, left no room for complaints. The thrilling encounter underscored the Premier League’s claim as one of the most exciting football leagues globally.