Manchester City grabbed the all-important three points in a difficult fixture at the King Power Stadium against Leicester in the first match following the international break. Leicester did create several chances, including a Jamie Vardy goal ruled out for offside, but in the end, City were the superior team as they climbed to second in the Premier League table.
This was a challenge for City heading back into the swing of club football, and while it was not their very best performance, it was an excellent result nonetheless. While much of the week’s drama had focused upon the eligibility of City’s Brazilian contingent, in the end, they were able to play, and City needed Ederson to come up with a few massive saves. Bernardo Silva played very well and was ultimately rewarded with a much-deserved goal that proved to be the difference between the two sides.
The introduction of Kelechi Iheanacho late on nearly spurred Leicester to find an equalizer as they chased the game, but in the end, City were able to see out the narrow win. With the Citizens opening up their UEFA Champions League campaign in midweek, sealing a difficult win away from home could prove a critical momentum boost as the campaign really gets underway. This stretch will be particularly important considering that a three-consecutive-match run of Chelsea, PSG, and Liverpool awaits from Sept. 25-Oct. 3 that could go a long way in deciding the Sky Blues’ title credentials.
Picking up maximum points against a perennial European contender in Leicester away from home, especially considering the Foxes’ history of success against City, could prove massive as the season progresses. City will now be at home for their next three matches in a row, and Pep Guardiola’s men will have to keep their focus if they are to achieve their usual goals: to win every trophy available.