Manchester City snatched a dramatic victory at Wolves on Sunday, with John Stones heading in a last-minute goal that sealed all three points.
The match started with City falling behind early after Jørgen Strand Larsen found the back of the net for Wolves. But Josko Gvardiol leveled the score before halftime with a stunning goal, keeping City in the fight. Despite dominating the second half, the visitors looked like they might be forced to settle for a draw as Wolves held firm defensively. That was until Stones delivered a game-winner in stoppage time. Initially ruled offside, VAR stepped in to overturn the decision, securing a thrilling win for City.
With Arsenal losing to Bournemouth the night before, this victory pushed City three points clear at the top of the Premier League table after an action-packed weekend.
Injury Concerns for City
Despite the win, City are grappling with some injury setbacks. Pep Guardiola confirmed that neither Kyle Walker nor Kevin De Bruyne are expected to return in time for their Champions League clash against Sparta Prague on Wednesday.
City’s triumph at Wolves came without four key first-team players, including De Bruyne, who has been sidelined since September with a thigh injury sustained in their Champions League draw against Inter. Though he recently resumed light training, his absence at Molineux suggests he’s not quite ready for a return. Guardiola also cast doubt on his availability for the midweek European fixture.
Stones’ Game-Winner and VAR Drama
John Stones’ late header appeared to seal the game, but celebrations were cut short as the goal was initially flagged for offside. Referee Chris Kavanagh, after being advised by VAR official Stuart Attwell, was prompted to take a closer look at the play on the pitch-side monitor. The offside call was tied to Bernardo Silva’s positioning near Wolves’ goalkeeper Jose Sa when the goal was scored.
As is often the case, a trip to the monitor hinted at a change of decision. Sure enough, after reviewing the footage, Kavanagh overturned the original call and awarded the goal. The reversal sparked wild celebrations from the City players and fans, as they secured a last-gasp victory.
City’s ability to pull off such thrilling wins under pressure is proving vital as they maintain their charge at the top of the Premier League.
