Erling Haaland failed to score in a Premier League game for the first time this season as Manchester City was held to a 1-1 draw by Newcastle United on Saturday, dropping points for the second consecutive weekend.
The match at St. James’ Park marked City’s first league outing since losing influential midfielder Rodri to a season-ending ACL injury. The absence of Rodri seemed to impact the champions’ fluidity, with Haaland, who had scored 10 goals in his first five games, struggling to find clear opportunities.
City took the lead in the 35th minute through an unlikely source. Left-back Josko Gvardiol collected a pass from Jack Grealish, cut inside onto his weaker right foot, and fired a low shot into the corner for his first goal for the club.
Newcastle equalized in the 58th minute when Anthony Gordon converted a penalty. The England winger, playing as the central striker in place of the injured Alexander Isak, was tripped by City goalkeeper Ederson Moraes after breaking through on goal.
The draw follows City’s 2-2 result against Arsenal last Sunday, ending their perfect start to their title defense after winning the first four games of the season.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said, “Newcastle is always a tough place to come. We had our chances, but so did they. It’s a fair result.”
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance: “To go toe-to-toe with the champions shows how far we’ve come. I’m proud of the lads today.”
The result leaves City vulnerable at the top of the table, with rivals Arsenal and Liverpool set to play later on Saturday against Leicester and Wolverhampton, respectively.
