2024-01-07 18:38:02
Kevin De Bruyne assisted with a goal on his return from injury following almost five months out and Manchester City began the defense of its FA Cup title with a 5-0 thrashing of second-division Huddersfield on Sunday.
In addition, Wrexham, a fourth division team owned by Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds, won in the third round. While Premier League teams such as West Ham, Nottingham Forest and Luton drew at home once morest lower division rivals.
De Bryune had not played since injuring his hamstring once morest Burnley on August 11. The Belgian player entered in the 57th minute – when City was up 2-0 – and sent a cross pass to Jeremy Doku, who scored the last goal of the duel at the Etihad Stadium.
City manager Pep Guardiola welcomed back the midfielder, describing him as “exceptional” and “unique”.
Phil Foden had a double and Argentina’s Julián Álvarez added another, as well as an own goal, which saw defender Manuel Akanji go off injured in the first half.
Wrexham beat Shrewsbury, one of their local rivals who play one division higher, 1-0 thanks to a second-half goal from Tom O’Connor.
The buzz surrounding Wrexham and its owners – Reynolds and fellow actor Rob McElhenney – reached another level last year when they beat second-tier Coventry and then took Sheffield United to a play-off. But the team’s goal is to be promoted this season; the team is third in League Two.
In other results, West Ham failed to maintain the advantage and tied with Bristol City, from the second division; Forest recovered from a 2-0 deficit to draw 2-2 with third division Blackpool; Another third division team, Bolton drew 0-0 with Luton.
Arsenal hosts Liverpool in the highlight matchup on Sunday.
1704653144
#Bryune #returns #assists #goal #Manchester #Citys #Cup #win
