Manchester City delivered a commanding performance at the Etihad Stadium, cruising to a 3-0 victory over Sunderland that propelled them into second place in the Premier League table. The win, capped by a moment of magic from Rayan Cherki and Phil Foden, leaves Pep Guardiola's side just two points off the summit after Arsenal's defeat at Aston Villa.
Dias and Gvardiol Set the Platform
The breakthrough came after half an hour of patient probing against a resolute Sunderland back five. Rúben Dias broke the deadlock in spectacular fashion, unleashing a 25-yard strike that bent away from goalkeeper Robin Roefs and found the net. It was the Portuguese defender's first club goal since September 2022.
City doubled their lead just four minutes later. Phil Foden's corner from the right was met by a perfectly timed leap from Josko Gvardiol, whose bullet header powered past Roefs to give the hosts a comfortable 2-0 cushion before halftime.
Cherki's Moment of Brilliance
The second half showcased the tactical fluidity Guardiola demands. He shifted Bernardo Silva infield, creating a dizzying trio of playmakers with Foden and Cherki that Sunderland struggled to contain. The contest was ultimately decorated by a piece of sheer individual quality in the 65th minute.
Rayan Cherki collected the ball on the right flank, drove forward and executed a breathtaking rabona cross. The audacious delivery landed perfectly on the head of Phil Foden, who nodded the ball home off the crossbar to seal the 3-0 rout. The assist was a highlight in a man-of-the-match display from the Frenchman.
City's Title Credentials Strengthened
This was a controlled response from City following their defensive lapses in a 5-4 win at Fulham earlier in the week. Guardiola's side enjoyed over 65% possession and limited Sunderland to few clear chances, with Gianluigi Donnarumma making a crucial save from Wilson Isidor in the second half.
For Sunderland, who arrived in sixth place, the afternoon ended in frustration. Their travails were compounded by a late red card for Luke O'Nien, who was dismissed in added time for a foul on Matheus Nunes.
The victory underscores Manchester City's relentless pursuit of another Premier League crown. With attacking talents like Foden, Erling Haaland, and a blossoming Rayan Cherki in sparkling form, Guardiola's squad has the firepower to break hearts once more when the title is decided in May.
