Nottingham, Dec 27 (NationPress) Rayan Cherki netted a dramatic winner in the 83rd minute, leading Manchester City to a 2-1 triumph over Nottingham Forest. This victory allowed Pep Guardiola to conclude the year 2025 on a high note, marking an impressive eighth consecutive win in Nottingham on Saturday.

The first half was devoid of any scoring, with both teams failing to register a shot on target. City took the lead just three minutes into the second half when Tijjani Reijnders executed a well-crafted finish following a clever team play.

Just when it seemed City had secured a flawless December, Omari Hutchinson equalized from close range six minutes later, leaving Guardiola's squad anxious about potentially dropping points.

However, with the clock winding down, Cherki, who had also assisted Reijnders’ goal, unleashed a low volley through a crowded penalty area into the net, clinching the victory and all three points for City. This win marked City's eighth consecutive triumph, bringing their total to 40 points from 18 matches in the Premier League.

The initial 45 minutes at the City Ground, West Bridgford, lacked festive cheer, characterized by strong defensive play and no shots on target. But the second half was a different story, with both sides finding the net in rapid succession.

City faced an early scare when Callum Hudson-Odoi delivered a dangerous cross that narrowly evaded both Igor Jesus and Morgan Gibbs-White at the six-yard box. Although City maintained possession, they struggled to penetrate the hosts’ defense, with Cherki sending one looping effort over the bar and both Erling Haaland and Phil Foden having their shots blocked.

The game sprung to life shortly after halftime, with a clever play from Manchester City slicing through the home side's defense. Cherki's precise pass found Reijnders, who finished clinically in front of the ecstatic away supporters.

Shortly thereafter, Cherki almost extended the lead with a rapid counter, but John Victor deflected the ball onto the post.

City's lead evaporated just six minutes later when Hutchinson scored from close range, finishing off a cross from Igor Jesus. Forest’s Brazilian striker set up Neco Williams, whose low shot was brilliantly saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma, with Nicola Savona firing the rebound over the bar.

At the opposite end, John Victor made an exceptional save to deny Foden's close-range effort after he maneuvered into the box. Yet, the match had one final twist when a corner was cleared to Cherki, whose first-time shot found the back of the net.