PL: De Bruyne's Stellar Performance Fuels City's 5-2 Comeback Against Palace

Key Takeaways

Kevin De Bruyne's impactful return
City's comeback from a 2-0 deficit
Significant contributions from young players
De Bruyne's record against Crystal Palace
City's move back into fourth place

Manchester, April 12 (NationPress) Kevin De Bruyne made a remarkable return to the Etihad, leading Manchester City to a thrilling 5-2 comeback victory against Crystal Palace, revitalizing their Champions League ambitions.

The match started with a jolt as Palace surprised the home team, quickly taking a 2-0 lead with goals from Eberechi Eze and Chris Richards. Eze almost netted a third, but the Premier League’s first use of semi-automated VAR ruled him offside.

In his first match back at home since announcing his summer exit, De Bruyne shifted the momentum. The Belgian superstar initiated City’s comeback with a spectacular 33rd-minute free-kick and played a pivotal role in Omar Marmoush’s equalizer just three minutes later.

After halftime, City surged ahead, scoring within two minutes. De Bruyne orchestrated the play, linking up with young talent Nico O’Reilly to assist Mateo Kovacic, who fired a shot from the edge of the box.

Following today’s performance, De Bruyne has contributed to 14 goals against the Eagles (5 goals, 9 assists).

Shortly after, the score escalated to 4-2. James McAtee, making his first Premier League start, connected with a stunning 80-yard assist from Ederson, rounded goalkeeper Dean Henderson, and calmly finished. A VAR check confirmed the goal, marking a memorable moment for the academy graduate.

City wasn’t finished. O’Reilly scored his inaugural Premier League goal late in the game, converting a Marmoush cross to finalize the comeback and showcase a dominant second-half performance.

Palace, who had appeared so sharp in the first half, were left stunned as City’s quality and energy took over.

This victory propels Pep Guardiola’s team back into fourth place, with six matches remaining.