Did Haaland Shine with a Brace as Man City Dominates Wolves?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Erling Haaland scored two goals in the match.
- Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki both scored on their debuts.
- Manchester City started the season with a commanding 4-0 victory.
- James Trafford impressed in goal, keeping a clean sheet.
- This victory marks City’s 14th opening day win in 15 seasons.
London, Aug 17 (NationPress) Erling Haaland netted two goals while new arrivals Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki found the net on their Premier League debuts, leading Manchester City to a resounding 4-0 victory against Wolves to kick off the season perfectly. Reijnders, who joined from AC Milan, showcased his talent with a remarkable midfield display, contributing to three goals as Pep Guardiola's team made a formidable statement at the start of the new season.
After concluding last season without any trophies for the first time in eight years, Manchester City wasted no time in setting a precedent. Haaland initially missed an early opportunity, heading over, but soon made his mark by finishing Rico Lewis's driven cross from close range in the 35th minute.
Just four minutes later, Reijnders capped a sweeping counterattack with a precise low strike into the corner to increase the lead. The Dutch midfielder continued to control the pace of the game and, in the 60th minute, assisted Haaland for his second goal, as the Norwegian struck home to extend the score to 3-0. Substitute Rayan Cherki added a final touch with a calm finish late in the match.
Despite their efforts, Wolves had a few chances, including Marshall Munetsi's powerful header disallowed for offside and Jorgen Strand Larsen's shot hitting the side netting.
Additionally, for Manchester City, the match was a positive moment as goalkeeper James Trafford made an impressive Premier League debut in Ederson's absence, successfully maintaining a clean sheet.
This match marked City's ninth consecutive away game to kick off the Premier League season, achieving eight victories during this span. It also marked their 14th opening day win in the last 15 seasons, with the only defeat being a 1-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur in the 2021/22 season.
“Many things were good, especially in the first half. In the second half, we dropped too much but maybe that is normal in the beginning of the season. Last season, we also started with hunger and energy. But we will see, it is just the first game so there are many points still to play,” said Man City manager Pep Guardiola.