Erling Haland picked up where he left off last season, scoring two goals as Manchester City held off a spirited Burnley to win 3-0 in the opening fixture of the 2023/24 Premier League season at Turf Moor on Friday night.
The big Norwegian grabbed two goals while impressive midfield powerhouse, Rodri grabbed the third.
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Burnley had started on the front foot, with so much adrenaline to restrict Manchester City to back passes and forcing errors from Manuel Akanji. The Vincent Kompany-led team, recently promoted after winning the Championship, pressed the Premier League champions throughout the opening minutes and the rest of the first half.
However, City’s quality was visible, with Kevin De Bruyne sending in a cross and Rodri heading down for Haaland to open the scoring in the fourth minute. He grabbed his second in the 36th minute after a left-footed shot that crashed in off the bar in the 36th minute. Burnley keeper James Trafford was left with no chance.
Rodri sealed the victory for Pep Guardiola’s charges in the 75th minute, rifling home after Burney failed to clear a free-kick.
Burnley had Anass Zaroury sent off in injury time, after the video assistant referee review, for a dangerous lunge on Kyle Walker.
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Manchester City’s only down moment came after captain De Bruyne was forced off in the 23rd minute due to injury. The Belgian maestro said before the game that he was shocked to be starting after only 26 minutes of pre-season football. He went straight down the tunnel for treatment, with the City faithful hoping their captain is ready soon for the challenge ahead.
A Burnley fan was kicked out of the stadium after a yellow object was thrown at Manchester City defender Rico Lewis after an opponent pushed him onto the corner flag.
Manchester City are on top of the table with three points, while Burnley are bottom.
Arsenal will face Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium, while Chelsea will battle Liverpool on Sunday in other weekend matches.
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Saturday
Arsenal vs Nottingham Forest
AFC Bournemouth vs West Ham United
Brighton & Hove Albion vs Luton Town
Everton vs Fulham
Sheffield United vs Crystal Palace
Newcastle United vs Aston Villa
Sunday
Brentford vs Tottenham Hotspur
Chelsea vs Liverpool
Monday
Manchester United vs Wolverhampton Wanderers
