Normal service was restored at the Etihad Stadium as Manchester City ended their recent struggles with a commanding 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest. The win marked a return to form for Pep Guardiola’s side, who snapped a four-game Premier League losing streak in emphatic fashion.
Kevin De Bruyne, left out of the starting lineup in last weekend’s defeat to Liverpool, was at the heart of City’s revitalized attacking display. The Belgian maestro orchestrated the first goal and scored the second, proving instrumental in his team’s resurgence.
City’s opener showcased their trademark fluidity. Ilkay Gundogan, under pressure after recent performances, drifted into space and delivered a pinpoint cross to De Bruyne, who deftly directed the ball into the path of Bernardo Silva for an easy tap-in. Despite their recent struggles, there was no sign of hesitation from City as they controlled the game with confidence.
Nottingham Forest had brief moments of hope, with Chris Wood missing a key chance at one end. However, City punished them ruthlessly at the other, as Jeremy Doku surged into the box and set up De Bruyne to sweep the ball past Matz Sels, doubling the hosts’ advantage before halftime.
The second half followed the same script, with City dictating play. Erling Haaland, quiet in recent matches, played a pivotal role in the third goal, charging forward and delivering a perfectly-weighted pass to Doku. The Belgian winger finished clinically, netting his first goal since October and putting the result beyond doubt.
The victory was a vital response for City, cutting Liverpool’s lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points and reigniting their campaign as the title race heats up. For Forest, it was a humbling experience, with little they could do to stem the tide of City’s relentless attack.
