Man City vs Everton LIVE: Updates from the Etihad Stadium
Manchester City are in action against Everton at the Etihad Stadium this Boxing Day, desperate to secure a much-needed win amid their worst run of form under Pep Guardiola. The reigning Premier League champions have won just one of their last 12 matches in all competitions, a streak that has seen them slip to seventh in the league table.
Everton, on the other hand, have shown defensive resilience in recent weeks, holding both Arsenal and Chelsea to goalless draws. Sean Dyche’s side have climbed to 15th, four points clear of the relegation zone, and will be looking to frustrate City further today.
Key Moments So Far
Haaland’s Missed Penalty
City were handed a golden opportunity to take the lead early in the second half when they were awarded a penalty after a foul on Phil Foden. However, Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, in inspired form, made a stunning save to deny Erling Haaland from the spot. The miss further highlighted City’s attacking struggles, with Haaland having scored just once in his last six matches.
Everton’s Defensive Setup
Sean Dyche’s men have been disciplined and compact, frustrating City’s attackers with a low block. Despite enjoying the majority of possession, City have struggled to create clear-cut chances, with Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden working tirelessly to unlock Everton’s defense.
Current Score: Man City 0-0 Everton
What’s at Stake?
- For Manchester City:
A win today would be vital for City as they aim to stay in the hunt for a Champions League spot. They currently sit four points behind fourth-place Nottingham Forest, and anything less than three points would pile further pressure on Guardiola and his players. - For Everton:
Avoiding defeat would extend Everton’s unbeaten run to four matches and further solidify their position above the relegation zone. A point at the Etihad would be a significant boost for Dyche’s side.
Team Lineups
Man City (3-2-4-1)
GK: Stefan Ortega
DEF: Kyle Walker, Manuel Akanji, Nathan Ake
MID: Rico Lewis, Mateo Kovacic
ATT: Savinho, Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden, Jeremy Doku
FWD: Erling Haaland
Everton (4-4-1-1)
GK: Jordan Pickford
DEF: Seamus Coleman, James Tarkowski, Jarrad Branthwaite, Vitaliy Mykolenko
MID: Jack Harrison, Idrissa Gueye, Cheick Doucoure, Amadou Onana
FWD: Abdoulaye Doucoure
ST: Dominic Calvert-Lewin
What to Watch For in the Second Half
- City’s Response: Can Guardiola’s side find the creativity and precision needed to break down Everton’s stubborn defense?
- Pickford’s Heroics: Will the Everton goalkeeper continue his inspired form to keep City at bay?
- Everton’s Counterattacks: Can Dyche’s side capitalize on any defensive lapses from City?
Stay tuned for live updates as the match unfolds.
LIVE Commentary:
- 56’: Haaland steps up for the penalty… Pickford SAVES! The Everton keeper dives to his right to keep the game level.
- 62’: De Bruyne curls a free kick just over the bar. City are ramping up the pressure.
- 70’: Everton break through Calvert-Lewin, but his effort is blocked by Walker.
Score: Man City 0-0 Everton
