UPDATE: Rayan Cherki scored a crucial late goal in the 83rd minute, leading Manchester City to a vital 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest today, December 25, 2023. This win marks City’s sixth consecutive triumph, propelling them to the top of the Premier League table ahead of Arsenal’s match against Brighton.
Cherki, who had not netted in the league since the season’s opening day, broke his drought at a pivotal moment. City seemed poised for a disappointing draw after Omari Hutchinson equalized for Forest, cancelling out Tijjani Reijnders’ first-half goal, which was set up by Cherki himself. The late strike from Cherki not only secured three points but also sent a strong message to title rivals about City’s resilience.
The match began with both teams struggling to make an impact. Nottingham Forest honored club legend John Robertson before kick-off, commemorating the Scot who passed away on Christmas Day. Robertson played a crucial role in Forest’s back-to-back European Cup victories in 1979 and 1980, and was fondly remembered by fans and players alike.
Despite an intense first half where neither team registered a shot on target, Forest had their chances, notably in the 7th minute when Callum Hudson-Odoi’s cross went begging. However, it was Manchester City who broke the deadlock shortly after the interval. Just three minutes into the second half, Reijnders found the net with a well-placed shot, giving City a much-needed lead.
Forest fought back fiercely. They equalized in the 54th minute when Hutchinson scored from close range after a quick counter-attack led by Morgan Gibbs-White. The home side gained momentum and nearly took the lead when Neco Williams’ shot forced a brilliant save from City’s goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma.
As the clock ticked down, City pressed hard for a winner. They created several scoring opportunities, with standout performances from players like Phil Foden, whose shot was thwarted by a last-ditch save from Forest’s goalkeeper, John Victor.
The decisive moment came in the 83rd minute. A corner kick fell to Cherki at the edge of the box, and he hammered a low shot past Victor, sealing the victory for City. This win is a significant boost for Pep Guardiola’s squad as they continue their push for the title.
Looking ahead, City’s next challenge will be crucial as they aim to maintain their lead in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest will seek to regroup as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures, determined to build on their strong performance today despite the disappointing result.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story and what it means for the Premier League standings.
