City's frantic first‑half sees Sunderland equaliser after VAR check

Manchester City hosted Sunderland at the Etihad in a Premier League clash that saw the first half end in drama. Five minutes were added to the PRIMERA MITAD, and a VAR review confirmed Brobbey's goal for Sunderland, leaving the score level at the break.

First‑half drama and VAR decision

Erling Haaland missed a clear chance that would have made it 4‑2 before the interval, prompting a visible reaction from the Norwegian striker. Shortly after, Semenyo powered a strike into the net to restore City’s lead, only for Sunderland to equalise when the ball struck the post and a corner was awarded. The VAR later examined Meunier’s position and ruled Brobbey’s goal completely legal.

Semenyo and Enzo fire City ahead

Meunier slipped between the defenders and delivered a precise pass to Brobbey, who finished confidently despite the earlier near‑miss. Enzo Fernández then scored from a set‑piece, threading the ball past the Sunderland defence, before Cherki added a second City goal after exploiting a mistake by Danso. The crowd heard the chant “GOOOOOOOOOL DEL MANCHESTER CITY!” after each strike.

Points table after the draw

The match finished level, leaving Manchester City on 13 points – one ahead of Arsenal, who slipped to a 3‑0 defeat at Brighton. Sunderland remain below the mid‑table with four points from twelve possible, having gathered only four points after four games. Both sides showed resilience, with the Black Cats maintaining long possession despite City’s pressure.

Manchester City brace for Premier League verdict as titles hang

City’s new signings are beginning to integrate, notably Enzo Fernández, who is gaining influence in Pep Guardiola’s system. The Citizens have kept clean sheets in their last four outings, underscoring a solid defensive foundation.

Sunderland’s debutant forward made an immediate impact, scoring his first Premier League goal with a low drive that rattled goalkeeper Donnarumma. A yellow card was shown to Methalie later in the half, and a mistimed challenge saw a Sunderland player collide with Ndiaye.

Overall, the encounter was described as “partido loco” by the live commentary, with both teams exchanging goals in quick succession. The result keeps the title race tight and adds pressure on Sunderland as they aim to improve their early‑season form.