Manchester City drew 1-1 with Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium, with Erling Haaland's dramatic stoppage-time equalizer salvaging a point for the title-chasing visitors.
Manchester City arrived on the south coast sitting second in the Premier League with 77 points from 36 matches. Bournemouth occupied sixth place with 55 points, looking to climb higher in their final push of the season. Both teams carried winning form into the fixture, each collecting four points from their last five games.
Bournemouth struck first in the 39th minute when Eli Junior Kroupi fired past the City defense to give the hosts a shock lead. The goal came against the run of play, with City controlling possession at 55 percent. Kroupi's clinical finish provided the hosts with genuine hope heading into halftime.
City dominated the opening 45 minutes despite falling behind. The visitors created multiple chances and expected to generate 1.6 expected goals by full time. Bournemouth defended resolutely but rode their luck in stretches, with City's superior ball control not translating into clear-cut opportunities.
The halftime break offered City time to adjust their approach. Pep Guardiola's side needed to break down Bournemouth's stubborn defense more effectively. The hosts, meanwhile, prepared to absorb pressure and capitalize on counter-attacking opportunities.
City pressed hard after the restart but found Bournemouth's backline difficult to penetrate. The visitors accumulated 14 total shots across the match, though only five found the target. Bournemouth's defensive unit, led by Marcos Senesi and Alex Scott, held firm through the second half.
As the match entered its final stages, tension mounted at the Vitality Stadium. City pushed forward relentlessly, sensing an opportunity to claim three points. Bournemouth's midfield worked tirelessly to shield their goal and maintain their advantage.
In the 90th minute plus five, Haaland struck the crucial blow. The Norwegian forward equalized in stoppage time, denying Bournemouth a memorable victory. The dramatic finish highlighted City's resilience and ability to find goals when it matters most.
City finished with 80 percent pass accuracy across 526 total passes, showcasing their technical control. Rodri earned a 7.7 rating for his midfield display, contributing two key passes and three shots. Bournemouth managed 80 percent accuracy from 430 passes, with Kroupi's goal-scoring contribution earning him a 7.6 rating.
The draw leaves City second with 78 points from 37 matches played. Bournemouth remains sixth with 56 points, their hopes of climbing higher now dimmed. City's late equalizer proved invaluable in the title race, maintaining their challenge at the top.
