“Always steps up”- Fans thrilled as captain Ilkay Gundogan’s brilliance gives Manchester City advantage in Premier League title race

Ilkay Gundogan scored a stunning goal for Manchester City to give them the lead in a Premier League game against Everton. The German broke the deadlock in a difficult period for the away side to calm the nerves amidst a tight title race.

Everton had been defending resolutely for most of the game and grew into the match as time passed. They had a golden chance to score in the 34th minute, with Mason Holgate volleying over from close range. Their intensity off the ball proved to be a thorn in City’s side as the home fans spurred them on.

However, all their good work was undone as Ilkay Gundogan scored a fabulous goal in the 37th minute. City worked the ball down the right, and Riyad Mahrez was given time to get it onto his left foot before floating it into the middle of the box. Gundogan had his back to goal, but he set himself up with a great first touch on his thigh. The midfielder, without turning around, flicked the ball through the gap next to him, past Jordan Pickford and into the bottom-right corner.

It was a truly inspirational goal and got the Manchester side going. They scored a second soon after, working it down the left this time. It was Gundogan again in space, clipping a cross into the middle, and striker Erling Haaland rose high on the edge of the six-yard box to thump a header past Pickford. It was only the Norweigan’s third touch of the game, but it was enough for him to score his 37th Premier League goal of the season.

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Ilkay Gundogan scores perfect free-kick

The German was not done there. He added another goal contribution to his tally with a sublime free-kick in the 51st minute. Englishman Phil Foden was taken out by James Garner, who stuck out a leg to stop him from getting into the box.

Gundogan stepped up to take the free-kick and chipped it over the Everton wall before him. Pickford was sprawling as he tried to reach it but couldn’t get close as it nestled into the top-left corner. The goal gave City a three-nil lead and sent them on their way to an 11th consecutive Premier League victory.

Fans react to Gundogan brilliance

Ilkay Gundogan now has eight goals and five assists for Manchester City this season. He has once again played a critical role in a title race for the Citizens, as they go four points clear of rivals Arsenal with three games to play.

Manchester City now turn their attention to the UEFA Champions League, where they take on Spanish giants Real Madrid in a second leg with all to play for. The two played out a fascinating 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabeu earlier this week. Manchester City are aiming to win their first even Champions League title, while Los Blancos have won the competition 14 times.

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