Phil Foden's late heroics secure Manchester City's win over Leeds
What's the story
Phil Foden's late-game brilliance helped Manchester City clinch a dramatic 3-2 victory against Leeds United in the Premier League 2025-26 season on Saturday. The match was a rollercoaster ride, with hosts Man City initially taking a two-goal lead before Leeds made a stunning comeback. However, Foden's second goal of the day in stoppage time sealed the win for Pep Guardiola's side. Here's more.
Match overview
City's early dominance and Leeds's struggle
Man City took the lead just 59 seconds into the match, the fastest goal of this Premier League season. Josko Gvardiol doubled the lead with a goal from a corner kick. Leeds United struggled to find their footing and failed to register a single shot on target in the first half. The second half saw an improved performance from Leeds, as they managed to equalize the score.
Turnaround
Leeds's comeback and City's response
Leeds United, under pressure from their boss Daniel Farke, made a strong comeback in the second half. Substitute Dominic Calvert-Lewin scored a scrappy goal and won a penalty that was converted by Lukas Nmecha. However, Man City responded well with Foden scoring his second goal of the day in stoppage time to secure all three points for his side.
Defensive issues
City's defensive frailties exposed
Despite the win, Man City's defensive weaknesses were once again exposed. They were easily breached on the flanks, especially by Leeds United's Calvert-Lewin in the second half. The 28-year-old scored in the 49th minute and won a penalty that led to Nmecha's equalizer. Man City struggled to cope with Leeds's attacking threat but managed to secure a crucial victory thanks to Foden's late heroics.
Details
Match stats and points table
Hosts Man City had nine shots on target from 18 attempts. Leeds managed 4 shots on target from 9 attempts. In terms of touches in the opposition box, Man City edged past Leeds (45-20). The hosts owned an xG of 2.72 compared to Leeds' 1.51. Guardiola's men had 62% ball possession and created 5 big chances. Man City have moved 2nd in the standings. After 13 matches, they own 25 points. Leeds are 18th with 11 points. This was their 8th defeat.
Foden
Foden races to 64 Premier League goals
Foden's brace saw him get to 64 goals in the Premier League from 205 appearances. He also owns 29 assists. In 11 Premier League appearances this season, Foden owns three goals (A1). Overall, the Englishman has scored 106 goals for the club in 336 appearances, including six this season from 17 matches. Foden has now scored more Premier League goals (64) than David Beckham and Yaya Toure (both 62).
Information
Foden's game by numbers
As per Squawka, Foden clocked 10 crosses and owned 4 touches in opposition box. He also won 4 duels and hit 4 shots with 3 of them on target. He also won 2 fouls and created 1 chance in addition to scoring twice.