Sunderland Holds Manchester City to a Goalless Draw, Preserving Unbeaten Home Record
Sunderland secured a 0-0 draw against Manchester City, maintaining their unbeaten home record in the Premier League. This result ended City's eight-match winning streak across all competitions, leaving them four points behind Arsenal at the top of the table.
Early in the match, Erling Haaland's header from a Bernardo Silva touch was disallowed following a VAR review for offside on a Cherki cross. Sunderland goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma made crucial saves to deny attempts from Brian Brobbey and Eliezer Mayenda as City intensified their pressure late in the game.
Sunderland, under Régis Le Bris, employed a tactical setup that effectively disrupted City's midfield. Nordi Mukiele was instrumental in limiting Haaland's influence on the match. Rodri returned to Manchester City's lineup in the second half, allowing Phil Foden more freedom and generating chances through Cherki, though City were unable to convert these opportunities.
Adding to the match intrigue, there was speculation about Enzo Maresca potentially succeeding Pep Guardiola as Manchester City's manager.
Despite the absence of four first-team players due to the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Sunderland showcased a strong performance with Brian Brobbey providing robust disruption.
The goalless draw highlighted Sunderland's resilience and tactical discipline against a strong City side.
