In the central clash of the 25th round of the English Premier League, reigning champions Liverpool hosted Manchester City at their home ground. The Enfield match was truly fierce, full of intense tempo and uncompromising duels - there was a "fight" for every meter in the field.
In this match, Uzbek defender Abdukodir Khusanov started and played confidently for about an hour. However, in the second half, an unpleasant incident occurred: while trying to block an opponent's shot, the team's goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, touched Khusanov's face with his knee. After the collision, medical assistance was provided, and our compatriot expressed his readiness to recover and continue the game.
Despite this, Pep Guardiola decided not to increase the risk: in the 61st minute, Husanov was substituted as a precaution. This decision appears to be a very correct and responsible step, especially in cases of suspected concussion.
After Khusanov left the field, the first goal of the match was scored. Liverpool opened the scoring with a precise shot from Dominic Soboslai, "blasting" the stadium. However, the Manchester club quickly came to their senses: in the remaining minutes, Bernardo Silva restored his team's hopes and equalized.
The fate of the match was decided at the last minute. Erling Haaland scored the winning goal from a penalty, leading City to a resounding victory at Anfield. This goal could be a significant turning point in the championship race, both psychologically and from a tournament standpoint.
How did City players perform according to cityxtra's rating?
A reputable source, cityxtra.co.uk, has evaluated the actions of Manchester City players. The following thoughts are based on the content of the same analysis.
Gianluigi Donnarumma - 8
In the first half, luck was on his side after the corner, and he barely conceded a goal. In the situation where the goal was conceded, he had almost no chance, and it was noticeable that the defense left him open. The decisive save at the end of the game was one of the episodes that "retained" the victory.
Mateus Nyunes - 6.5
He didn't make big mistakes and worked tirelessly on the right wing. The episode where he earned a penalty at the end of the game was very important: Alisson overturned the ball as he was reaching it.
Abdukodir Khusanov - 7
He moved almost flawlessly and was reliable with the ball. Within one hour, 22 out of 24 passes were accurate, with 2 interceptions and 3 interceptions. It was replaced by a suspicion of a concussion following a collision with Donnarumma while blocking a shot in front of the goal.
Mark Gexi - 8
According to the source, the best player of the match. He blocked several shots, depriving Liverpool of clear scoring opportunities, and appeared calm and confident in defense.
Ryan Ait-Nuri - 6.5
In the first half, he actively participated in the team's attacks and was also stable in defense. One of the main tasks - restricting Salah - was largely accomplished.
Nico O'Reilly - 6
He played freely in midfield and didn't lose his position.
Rodri - 6.5
As usual, a calm, stable game without "panic." He made the right decisions against a very quick opponent.
Bernardo Silva - 8
It may not have been the brightest throughout the match, but he scored at the decisive moment - and that "justified" his night.
Antoine Semeno - 5.5
Although it's said he didn't play very badly, the newly added player didn't stand out much. It was noted that more useful actions were expected from him.
Erling Haaland - 8
It is noted that fewer goals are being scored in an open game, but one of the most effective in creating chances. He created several dangerous episodes, and his goal from a penalty in the 92nd minute was of great importance.
Omar Marmush - 6
He actively participated in attacks in the first half, but at the beginning of the second half, luck wasn't on his side after Alisson's mistake. The yellow card may have been exchanged earlier.
Ryan Cherki - 6
Played more calmly, but without mistakes. The cancellation of his goal in the 100th minute was cited as a setback.
Ruben Dias - 6
Having entered the field, he strengthened the defense with experience and calmness, did not make a big mistake.
Now the most important thing is Husanov's condition
The outcome of the match will certainly be discussed, but the main question for Uzbek fans is Khusanov's health. Although he reported feeling well, one shouldn't rush into such clashes. If everything goes well, he will continue to compete for the starting lineup in the upcoming matches. If a medical examination requires extra care - health comes first, football comes second.
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