Manchester City delivered a dominant performance, securing the biggest Premier League win of the season with a commanding victory over struggling Ipswich at Portman Road, propelling them back into the top four.
After surrendering a two-goal lead in their previous 2-2 draw with Brentford, Pep Guardiola’s side responded emphatically, showcasing their quality with a six-goal triumph.
Phil Foden was instrumental, scoring twice and providing an assist. His first goal came in the 28th minute, deftly controlling Kevin De Bruyne’s cross before slotting the ball home.
Three minutes later, Foden turned provider, setting up Mateo Kovacic for a crisp strike from the edge of the box. Foden then added his second just before halftime, converting another De Bruyne delivery as his low shot slipped past Christian Walton.
City’s dominance continued in the second half. Jeremy Doku made it 4-0 shortly after the break with a deflected shot, and Erling Haaland capitalized on an Ipswich defensive error to score the fifth, driving home from Doku’s assist. Substitute James McAtee capped the rout with a looping header from Kovacic’s cross.
The win moves Manchester City into fourth place on 38 points, while Ipswich remains in the relegation zone with 16 points.
This performance was a strong statement from Guardiola’s team, eager to silence any doubts after a difficult end to the previous year.
Foden Shines as City Rediscover Their Spark
Manchester City’s season has not unfolded as fans might have hoped, with the defending champions trailing league leaders Liverpool by 12 points. A poor run of form through November and December, which saw them lose six of nine matches, effectively derailed their title defense. However, recent performances suggest a return to their formidable best.
This emphatic win over Ipswich marks City’s third victory in their last four games, during which they have netted 14 goals while conceding just three. Central to this resurgence has been Phil Foden, who appears to be recapturing the form that saw him score a career-high 17 goals and provide eight assists last season.
Foden’s double against Ipswich brings his tally to six goals in his past six matches. His hunger to drive City’s attacks was evident, particularly in his partnership with Kevin De Bruyne, who assisted both of his goals. For City fans, Foden’s rediscovery of form is a promising sign, alongside De Bruyne’s growing influence.
Although Foden suggested earlier this week that City’s title hopes might be over, performances like this could prompt him—and the team—to reconsider. History shows City are capable of long, relentless winning streaks.
Delap Falls Short Against Former Club
Much of the pre-match focus was on Ipswich striker Liam Delap, who faced his former club for the first time since his summer move from Manchester City to Portman Road. The 21-year-old has been a bright spot in Ipswich’s challenging season, with his eight Premier League goals proving vital in their survival battle.
However, Delap struggled to make an impact against City, as a defense bolstered by the returning Ruben Dias kept him quiet. His best chance came early, but a blocked strike was the closest he got to reminding his old side of his talents.
While this result does little to affect Ipswich’s relegation fight, their next fixture—against league leaders Liverpool—poses an even sterner test for Kieran McKenna’s team.