Photo: Bryan Berlin / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Manchester City came from behind to beat Bournemouth 2-1 in their Premier League opener on Saturday, with Joško Gvardiol's stoppage-time goal — confirmed after a VAR review — sealing a dramatic win at the Etihad Stadium.
Marcus Tavernier had given Bournemouth a 26th-minute lead, finishing from close range after Evanilson's cross evaded City's defence. The visitors threatened on the counter throughout the first half, and Gianluigi Donnarumma needed a fine save to deny Justin Kluivert's header late in the second period.
City equalised seven minutes from time when Marc Guéhi rose to head home a corner delivered by substitute Rayan Cherki. It was the England defender's second chance of the half, having earlier headed wide from six yards when unmarked.
Gvardiol then struck from close range in the first minute of stoppage time, with Cherki again providing the assist. The goal was initially flagged offside before a VAR check overturned the decision and awarded City all three points.
"Everyone is proud in the moment. It's the opening game of the season and we know how important it is, especially with all the changes we've had in the previous weeks. We need to enjoy this, we deserve it and I'm happy with the three points," Gvardiol said.
"To be fair, I was quite sure I was onside, but it's difficult — in that moment you are just waiting to see the referee's reaction. I am glad in the end it's a goal."
The result was the first competitive league win for new City manager Enzo Maresca, who made several second-half substitutions to change the game. The match also marked Erling Haaland's 200th City appearance, though the Norwegian could not convert despite a clear opening in the 14th minute.
City's starting line-up carried an average age of 25 years and 28 days, the youngest for a Premier League opener at the club since the 2008/09 season under Mark Hughes. The attendance at the Etihad was 60,645.
City's next Premier League fixture is away at Crystal Palace on Friday, August 28, kick-off 20:00 UK time.