Man City Snatch Late Winner Against Aston Villa to Boost UCL Hopes
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Manchester City secured a vital 2-1 victory over Aston Villa on Tuesday night, keeping their hopes of a Champions League qualification alive. The dramatic win at Etihad Stadium was sealed with a 94th-minute goal from Matheus Nunes, following a tense and thrilling match.
City Dominates but Struggles to Finish
City started the match strongly with an early goal from Bernardo Silva in the 7th minute. The Portuguese winger capitalized on a blistering run by Omar Marmoush, who raced past Matty Cash to deliver a perfect assist. Silva’s shot slipped past Emiliano Martinez, despite the Villa keeper getting a hand on it.
However, the lead didn’t last long as Marcus Rashford equalized for Villa in the 18th minute. A VAR review led to a penalty after Rúben Dias fouled Jacob Ramsey in the box. Rashford, who is on loan from Manchester United, confidently converted the penalty, sending City’s goalkeeper Stefan Ortega the wrong way.
Despite dominating the possession with 61.6% and outshooting Villa 14-7, City struggled to regain their lead in the second half. Kevin De Bruyne set up James McAtee for two golden opportunities, but the young forward failed to convert either chance. Meanwhile, Villa’s Rashford continued to pose a threat, even testing Ortega with a strong run in the second half that ended in a shot into the side netting.
Nunes Seals the Win in Stoppage Time
As the match seemed destined for a draw, Matheus Nunes was in the right place at the right time. In the 94th minute, he latched onto a low cross from Jérémy Doku, converting it into the winning goal and sending City into third place in the Premier League with 61 points, just ahead of their rivals. This win was crucial as they move closer to securing a Champions League spot, though they have played one more match than those behind them.
Villa’s Struggles Continue at Etihad
The defeat extends Villa’s painful streak at Etihad Stadium, where they have now lost 15 consecutive matches. Despite showing resilience, they remain seventh in the table with 57 points.
City’s Champions League Dreams Alive
This late victory keeps Pep Guardiola’s side firmly in the hunt for a top-four finish, ensuring their qualification for next season’s Champions League. As the season nears its conclusion, every point counts, and City’s dramatic win over Villa will provide them with the momentum they need in the final stretch.
